Why this is Josh Allen’s Only Chance to Beat Patrick Mahomes

When Josh Allen and Patrick Mahomes face off, it’s more than a football game—it’s a clash of generational talents. Historically, Mahomes has dominated this rivalry, particularly in the postseason, with a 3–0 record against Allen. However, as the Buffalo Bills prepare to take on the Kansas City Chiefs in the AFC Championship, there’s growing belief that this could finally be Allen’s moment to turn the tide. With a refined skill set and a stronger team around him, the stage is set for the Bills’ quarterback to prove he’s capable of dethroning Mahomes.

Allen vs. Mahomes: A Rivalry for the Ages

The Allen-Mahomes rivalry has consistently delivered thrilling matchups, with Mahomes often coming out on top in high-stakes postseason battles. Known for his clutch performances, particularly on third and fourth downs, Mahomes has cemented his reputation as one of the league’s greatest quarterbacks.

However, this season, Allen has shown remarkable growth. In Week 11, he led the Bills to a statement victory over Kansas City, snapping the Chiefs’ 15-game winning streak. That win demonstrated that the Bills can compete with the Chiefs’ high-powered offense when playing at their best. To rewrite his postseason narrative, Allen will need to summon every ounce of his transcendent talent and outperform Mahomes in this pivotal matchup.

Josh Allen’s Growth as a Game Manager

One of Allen’s biggest areas of improvement this season has been his ability to manage risk. In past seasons, he often relied on high-risk, high-reward plays, sometimes to his team’s detriment. This year, Allen has balanced his natural playmaking ability with smarter decision-making, avoiding costly mistakes while maintaining his explosiveness.

Statistically, Allen has had one of his most efficient seasons. He’s recorded a career-low 15 turnover-worthy plays and boasts a 7.1% big-time throw percentage, the second-highest of his career. These numbers underscore his evolution as a decision-maker, allowing him to lead the Bills without compromising their success. Against the Ravens in the divisional round, Allen demonstrated this maturity, focusing on protecting the ball and letting his team’s balanced offense carry the load in their 27–25 win. Against Mahomes and the Chiefs, however, Allen will need to tap into every facet of his elite skill set, from deep throws to clutch scrambles, to secure victory.

A Team Built for Postseason Success

The 2024 Buffalo Bills have been designed for postseason success. Over the offseason, the team redefined its identity, becoming one of the most physical offenses in the NFL. A reliable run game has allowed Allen to conserve energy and pick his moments to shine, reducing the pressure on him to deliver big plays on every drive.

On defense, the Bills lack transcendent stars but benefit from continuity and development. Eight of their 11 starters were acquired through the draft under general manager Brandon Beane and head coach Sean McDermott, both of whom have been with the organization since 2017. This stability has created a cohesive defensive unit capable of competing with the league’s best offenses.

Even without an elite playmaker like Stefon Diggs, Allen has emerged as a better distributor, spreading the ball effectively across multiple targets. This adaptability showcases his growth as a quarterback and gives the Bills a strategic edge in the AFC Championship Game.

Conclusion

Defeating Mahomes and the Chiefs is no easy feat, especially with Kansas City chasing a historic three-peat. However, everything seems to be aligning for Josh Allen and the Bills. From his improved decision-making to the team’s physicality and balance, the 2024 Bills are better positioned than ever to overcome the Chiefs.

This matchup is about more than advancing to the Super Bowl—it’s about Allen proving he belongs in the same conversation as Mahomes. If the Bills are to finally overcome their postseason heartbreak, it will require Allen’s very best. This is his moment to step out of Mahomes’ shadow and solidify his legacy as one of the NFL’s elite quarterbacks.