Travis Kelce’s Opening Catch Against the Houston Texans Reveals Glimpse into Chiefs’ Offense
Travis Kelce’s opening catch against the Houston Texans on Saturday will give a glimpse into the Kansas City Chiefs’ offense’s evolution over the past few weeks. While Andy Reid is still doing what he’s always done, the key players have changed. Rookie receiver Xavier Worthy and even tight end Noah Gray have received more attention, but Kelce hasn’t entirely disappeared.
The divisional round showcased this, as Houston often lost track of the all-time great pass-catching tight end and Taylor Swift’s partner, Kelce. “It’s Playoff Trav,” Patrick Mahomes said after the game, referring to Kelce.
Kelce’s first catch displayed this, as he was wide open for a 23-yard gain. The Chiefs have complained that Kelce has been double-teamed all year, but Worthy was the one getting the double team, and two Texans linebackers stepped up to stop a big play. Mahomes easily floated the ball to his favorite target, Kelce, for a big gain.
Six weeks ago, Kelce wouldn’t have been as open. Not before Worthy legitimized himself, and not before Gray legitimized himself. The added depth has given the Chiefs a variety of options, and opposing defenses can’t focus solely on Kelce.
Andy Reid believes that Kelce’s production hasn’t been reduced by age or play. “The opportunities he’s had, he’s done well with,” Reid said. “And I don’t think it’s his play that has been reduced when everybody asks about age or physical ability.”
Kelce’s 35-year-old age and the time spent jet-setting in the offseason didn’t impact his performance. He goes out every day to practice hard and gets mad when someone tries to take him out. This dedication sets him apart.
Against the Houston Texans, Kelce got the Chiefs into the red zone, where he was single-covered by slot defender Myles Bryant, a player known for being a liability on the New England Patriots defense. Kelce took Bryant’s lunch money, earning an 18-yard reception that helped set up his touchdown reception on the ensuing third down.
Kelce’s touchdown on Saturday could be a sign that he will punish defenses that fail to account for him. The Chiefs will face the Buffalo Bills in the AFC Championship Game, where Kelce will likely be a key target. Opponents won’t be as complacent as the Texans, and the Chiefs will aim to create confusion with their various pass-catchers to use their best advantage.