ATLANTA – Yet again, the Kansas City Chiefs find themselves in a nail-biter.

As the Chiefs strive for the coveted three-peat as Super Bowl champions in the NFL, this trend of closely contested games continues. Their latest outing resulted in a narrow 22-17 win against the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday night, keeping their perfect season ongoing with a record of 3-0.

However, they certainly had to work hard for this victory. The game wasn’t secured until Nick Bolton disrupted a critical fourth-and-1 situation at the Chiefs’ 13-yard line, tackling Bijan Robinson for a 3-yard loss in the game’s final moments at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

Following the victory, Chiefs safety Justin Reid highlighted the team’s mindset: Survive and Thrive. “The NFL is the toughest sport in the world, and the difference between winning and losing teams has never been smaller,” Reid explained to YSL News Sports. “Great teams always find a way to win, no matter how it looks. It’s all about getting W’s.”

In this context, a “W” means a win.

The Chiefs have faced tight games this season, with all three victories coming by a mere 13 points combined. This highlights their championship caliber and resilience in overcoming obstacles. In the latest matchup, the defense rose to the occasion, shutting down the Falcons on two crucial fourth downs in the game’s final moments. Meanwhile, the offense has consistently found ways to score just enough to secure victories.

Patrick Mahomes recognizes these challenges. “We haven’t really performed well in all three games,” he shared, noting he hasn’t reached 300 passing yards in any game this season. “Our ability to win reflects our team’s character and experience in tough situations.”

In the game against the Falcons, Mahomes completed 26 of 39 passes totaling 217 yards with two touchdowns. Despite being the league’s top player, he admitted his recent performances haven’t been up to par. He cited missed opportunities and a red zone interception thrown to new Falcons safety Justin Simmons as areas where he needs improvement.

“I don’t feel I’ve played well lately,” Mahomes reflected. “It’s not just about stats; I need to get back to the basics and improve our execution. If opponents force us to move down the field, we need to show we can do it. I expect more of the same against the Chargers.”

Mahomes’ struggles are compounded by the absence of two integral players due to injuries—receiver Marquise “Hollywood” Brown (who underwent shoulder surgery) and running back Isiah Pacheco (ankle injury). In Pacheco’s stead, rookie fullback Carson Steele stepped up for his first start, leading the team with 72 yards on 17 carries.

With Brown sidelined since the preseason opener, the Chiefs have accelerated the development of first-round rookie Xavier Worthy and increased reliance on second-year player Rashee Rice. Additionally, All-Pro tight end Travis Kelce has been somewhat limited, managing only 30 yards from four receptions while facing relentless double and triple coverage.

On the other hand, Rice has emerged impressively, recording a career-high 12 catches for 110 yards and a touchdown. This development is noteworthy, especially as Rice battles serious legal issues stemming from a high-speed hit-and-run incident earlier this year, which could potentially lead to legal ramifications and a suspension from the NFL. The league is taking a wait-and-see approach regarding disciplinary actions until his case concludes, which currently benefits the Chiefs.

With Worthy’s role still evolving, the Chiefs rely heavily on the consistent playmaking ability that Rice has shown.

“He’s performing well,” Mahomes acknowledged. “When teams focus on Travis, Rashee steps up and makes plays. Eventually, teams will have to adjust, and that’s when others like Travis, Worthy, or JuJu (Smith-Schuster) can shine. He’s proving to be a reliable No. 1 receiver, week after week.”

In the end, the Chiefs are just managing to secure victories each week.

This could very well be the defining characteristic of this version of the Chiefs. Throughout their championship run, they have won games with record-setting offense and outstanding defense. Last season marked a turning point, as they achieved postseason victories on the road en route to another Super Bowl.

What will this team be known for?

“It’s still early,” said All-Pro defensive tackle Chris Jones when asked about the team’s identity. “After seven or eight games, I’ll have a clearer view.”

Nonetheless, there seems to be a recurring theme emerging.

“We find a way to push through,” Reid emphasized. “We just need to keep improving. It’s important not to peak too early.”

This serves as a warning to all teams in the NFL.