Chiefs Survive OT, Mahomes Injury Scare to Beat Bucs

Mahomes Injures Ankle, Returns to Lead Chiefs to Victory

The Kansas City Chiefs escaped with a thrilling 31-27 overtime victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday at Raymond James Stadium. The win was marred by an ankle injury to quarterback Patrick Mahomes, who was forced to leave the game late in the second quarter but returned in overtime to lead the Chiefs to the victory.

Mahomes injured his ankle on a seven-yard run with 5:31 remaining in the second quarter. He was helped off the field and to the locker room and did not return until the Chiefs' first possession of overtime.

Chiefs Defense Steps Up in Mahomes' Absence

In Mahomes' absence, the Chiefs' defense stepped up and held the Buccaneers to just three points in the second half and overtime. The Chiefs also forced two turnovers, including an interception by safety Justin Reid in overtime that set up the Chiefs' game-winning field goal.

The Buccaneers took a 27-24 lead with just 1:42 remaining in regulation on a 1-yard touchdown run by Leonard Fournette. However, the Chiefs drove down the field and tied the game on a 44-yard field goal by Harrison Butker as time expired.

Mahomes Returns in OT, Leads Chiefs to Victory

Mahomes returned to the game in overtime and immediately led the Chiefs on a 13-play, 75-yard drive that ended with Butker's game-winning 33-yard field goal.

Mahomes finished the game 23-of-37 passing for 249 yards and two touchdowns. He also rushed for 34 yards on four carries.

Chiefs Improve to 8-2, Bucs Fall to 6-4

With the win, the Chiefs improved to 8-2 on the season and remained in first place in the AFC West. The Buccaneers fell to 6-4 and dropped to second place in the NFC South.

Conclusion

The Chiefs' victory over the Buccaneers was a tale of two halves. The Chiefs dominated the first half, building a 21-10 lead behind Mahomes' strong play. However, Mahomes' ankle injury changed the complexion of the game, and the Buccaneers rallied to take a 27-24 lead in the fourth quarter.

The Chiefs' defense came up big in Mahomes' absence, and Mahomes' return in overtime proved to be the difference in the game. The Chiefs now have a week off before they host the Jacksonville Jaguars on November 13.