As the Kansas City Chiefs approach the final stretch of the season, the team is facing a tough reality: changes are necessary if they want to remain Super Bowl contenders. Despite maintaining the top spot in the AFC after Week 13, the Chiefs are showing signs of fatigue and inconsistency, particularly on defense. With a brutal schedule ahead, they must make adjustments in key areas if they hope to fend off the competition and make a deep playoff run. Here’s a breakdown of the changes the Chiefs need to make and how they can adjust for success down the stretch.

The Chiefs’ Challenging Road Ahead

Currently sitting at the top of the AFC, the Chiefs have a slender lead over several teams, including the Buffalo Bills, who are just half a game behind and hold the tiebreaker after beating Kansas City earlier this season. With playoff hopes on the line, the Chiefs face a tough slate of games in the final weeks of the season. Four of their last five opponents are currently in the playoff picture, including matchups with the Chargers, Texans, Steelers, and Broncos.

Adding to the pressure is the fact that the Chiefs are nearing the end of a grueling season without much rest. Their bye week came back in Week 6, and they are now entering a stretch of three games in 11 days—making the final month of the regular season an absolute test of endurance. As they battle for playoff positioning, the Chiefs must make crucial adjustments to stay ahead of the competition.

Defensive Struggles: Time for a Shift?

While the Chiefs’ offense, led by Patrick Mahomes, has largely remained a dominant force, the defense has started to show cracks. The team currently ranks 23rd in passing yards allowed per game (224) and 20th in completion percentage allowed (65.5%). Even more concerning is the Chiefs’ inability to generate consistent pressure on the quarterback, as they rank near the bottom of the league in sacks.

In recent weeks, the defense has been unable to maintain its typical high level of performance. Over the past three games, they’ve allowed an average of over 25 points per game and 378 yards. This has come against opponents whose offenses aren’t considered top-tier, suggesting that the Chiefs’ defense is not clicking in the way it needs to heading into the playoffs.

However, there are signs of hope. Joshua Williams stepped up in relief of Jaylen Watson, allowing zero receptions on two targets in his most recent outing. The return of defensive end Charles Omenihu should help the defensive line’s ability to generate pressure, though it’s clear that a more significant shift is required for this unit to be truly playoff-ready.

Offensive Adjustments: Finding Consistency

While Mahomes and the offense have often carried the team this season, inconsistency has been an issue at times. Despite being one of the most explosive offenses in the league, the Chiefs have struggled in the red zone and in critical moments of games. If they want to make a deep playoff push, they’ll need to find greater consistency in their offensive production.

The Chiefs’ receiving corps, while still formidable, has been banged up at times, and the running game has not been as reliable as in past seasons. With teams like the Bills, Steelers, and Texans lurking in the playoff race, Mahomes will need to elevate his play and find rhythm with his weapons in the passing game. His ability to connect with players like Travis Kelce and Rasheed Rice will be crucial for maintaining offensive momentum.

A Critical Game Against the Chargers

One of the most important games of the Chiefs’ final stretch is this upcoming matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday Night Football. The Chargers, despite their struggles this season, are still a dangerous team, especially with Justin Herbert under center. The Chiefs’ defense will need to step up, particularly in limiting Herbert’s big plays, as he’s shown an ability to take over games. Herbert has thrown for 13 touchdowns and just one interception this season, and the Chiefs’ secondary will need to rise to the occasion to contain his weapons.

However, the Chargers are dealing with some key injuries, notably to Lad Makoni, their top wide receiver, and JK Dobbins, who is now on injured reserve. These absences could impact the Chargers’ offensive output, giving the Chiefs’ defense a chance to assert itself. But no matter the injuries, this divisional matchup will be a critical test for Kansas City’s defense and offensive execution.

What Needs to Change?

To succeed in the final stretch of the season, the Chiefs must make some necessary changes in both their offensive and defensive schemes:

Defensive Pressure: The defense must find ways to increase their sack totals and apply more consistent pressure on quarterbacks. If they continue to struggle in this area, they’ll struggle to contain high-powered offenses in the playoffs.Secondary Adjustments: With the Chiefs’ pass defense ranked poorly, they need to make adjustments in their secondary. The emergence of Joshua Williams is a positive sign, but more consistency is needed across the board.Offensive Balance: Mahomes and the offense need to fine-tune their execution, particularly in the red zone and in clutch moments. With the pressure mounting, their ability to capitalize on every opportunity will be crucial.Health and Depth: Staying healthy and getting key players back, like Harrison Butker, will be important for the Chiefs’ playoff run. They will need their full roster to step up and contribute as they face off against some of the league’s best teams.

The Path Forward

The Chiefs have the talent to make a deep playoff run, but they must make adjustments quickly. If they can improve their defense, maintain offensive consistency, and stay healthy, they will be well-positioned to finish the season strong. However, with the competition heating up and the stakes getting higher, the Chiefs cannot afford to stand pat. Change is needed—and if they can make those changes, they’ll be primed for another Super Bowl run.