The Chiefs have remastered the art of winning ugly

Writer Lyle Graversen argues that the Kansas City Chiefs have reclaimed their ability to overcome mistakes and secure ugly wins through their 5-0 start to the 2026 season. After an uncharacteristic 6-11 campaign in 2025 where they finished 1-9 in one-score games, Kansas City has managed to win four relatively messy contests against opponents including the Los Angeles Chargers, Indianapolis Colts, and Las Vegas Raiders.

Graversen highlights that the Chiefs have outscored opponents 46-24 in the fourth quarter and overtime, showing renewed late-game resiliency. While Patrick Mahomes and Kenneth Walker have carried the offense through issues along the offensive line and at wide receiver, the writer cautions that Kansas City must fix its flaws ahead of a tougher upcoming schedule, starting with the Seattle Seahawks.