Chargers Eliminate Chiefs from Playoffs, Ending AFC Dynasty in Gritty Win

The Los Angeles Chargers have ousted the Kansas City Chiefs from the postseason. They secured a hard-fought 16-13 victory at Arrowhead Stadium. The win on Sunday mathematically ended the Chiefs’ playoff hopes.

According to The Associated Press, the Chargers’ defense delivered a legendary performance. They sacked Patrick Mahomes five times and forced two critical turnovers. This result marks a stunning shift in the AFC West power structure.

Defensive Dominance Seals Historic Victory

The Chargers’ defense was the undeniable star. They harassed Mahomes relentlessly throughout the frigid contest. Defensive lineman Da’Shawn Hand delivered the hit that forced Mahomes from the game with a knee injury.

In the final minutes, safety Derwin James sealed the win. He intercepted backup quarterback Gardner Minshew to kill Kansas City’s last drive. This clutch play followed a key interception by linebacker Daiyan Henley earlier in the fourth quarter.

A Dynasty’s Sudden Conclusion and New AFC Reality

This elimination ends an era for the Chiefs. For the first time in his career, Patrick Mahomes will miss the AFC Championship Game. The Chiefs’ streak of consecutive playoff appearances is now over.

The Chargers, meanwhile, keep their own playoff dreams vividly alive. Sweeping the Chiefs this season, they are now contenders for the AFC West title. The league’s balance of power appears to be undergoing a significant recalibration.

The Chargers’ victory not only revitalizes their season but conclusively closes a championship chapter for Kansas City. This defensive masterclass will be remembered as the moment the Chiefs’ dynasty was officially dismantled.

Dropping this nugget your way-

Are the Chiefs completely out of the playoffs?

Yes. The Chargers’ win, combined with other AFC results, mathematically eliminated the Kansas City Chiefs from postseason contention. Their season will end after Week 18.

What was the key play of the game?

Safety Derwin James’ interception with 20 seconds left was the final blow. It followed a crucial fourth-quarter interception by linebacker Daiyan Henley that stopped a Chiefs scoring threat.

Why did Patrick Mahomes leave the game?

Mahomes suffered a left knee injury after being hit by Da’Shawn Hand in the fourth quarter. He was unable to put weight on the leg as he left the field and did not return.

What does this win mean for the Chargers?

The victory keeps the Chargers firmly in the hunt for an AFC Wild Card spot. It also puts them in contention to win the AFC West division title.

When did the Chargers last sweep the Chiefs?

Prior to this 2025 season sweep, the Chargers had not won both games against the Chiefs in a single season since 2013. They lost 19 of 22 meetings in that span.