AFC Championship Game Preview

 The Kansas City Chiefs will get another chance to solve the one team that seems to have their number over the past two seasons. The Cincinnati Bengals have knocked off the Chiefs three times since the 2021 season, including in last year's AFC title game, which was also played at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City. 

 

The Bengals are led by quarterback Joe Burrow and a high powered offense that features a trio of wide receivers that can burn any defense. Last year, the Bengals overcame a 18-point deficit and beat the Chiefs, 27-24 in overtime to advance to the Super Bowl. In addition, the Cincinnati defense has been steadily improving and got after Buffalo Bills QB Josh Allen last week, forcing three turnovers as they blasted the Bills, 27-10. 

The Chiefs beat Jacksonville last Saturday to get to this stage and they know the Bengals will be a tough challenge. Kansas City quarterback Patrick Mahomes is dealing with an ankle sprain and from all indications, he will be ready to go this Sunday. If Mahomes cannot be his usual effective self, it could get ugly for the Chiefs. 

Look for a high scoring game in this one with another overtime possible. The Bengals should make it four in a row over Kansas City and a lot will depend on whether Kansas City's defense can get to Burrow and force some mistakes. The call here is that won't happen and the Bengals will get back to the Super Bowl for a second straight year. 

Heftyinfo pick -  Cincinnati 30, Kansas City 28