Chiefs Pull Away After Jets’ Red-Zone Struggles

The Jets stayed within two points of Kansas City at halftime but were shut out in the second half, falling 35-12 at Arrowhead Stadium on November 8. The defeat dropped New York to 2-7, while the Chiefs improved to 6-2 and stopped a two-game skid.

New York controlled much of the first half, holding the ball for more than 20 minutes and running 39 plays to Kansas City’s 24. But four first-half trips ended in field goals by Jason Sanders, from 23, 48, 49 and 54 yards, rather than touchdowns. The Jets entered the game converting 42.3% of their red-zone possessions into touchdowns, the league’s lowest rate.

Kansas City also had early problems. Justin Fields fumbled on a third-and-1 quarterback sneak, and the Jets successfully challenged for possession. The Chiefs had several first-half fumbles, while pressure on quarterback Patrick Mahomes included multiple strip-sacks. Kansas City’s Harrison Butker missed a 56-yard field goal and then missed a 51-yard attempt after a penalty gave him another try.

The Chiefs found their footing after halftime, scoring 21 unanswered points. The Jets’ frustration was visible as quarterback Geno Smith shouted at teammates and slammed his helmet into the bench. New York’s next game is at home against Buffalo on November 15, while Kansas City’s win offered a needed rebound after consecutive losses.