Bills Starter Now in Danger of Missing AFC Title Game vs. Chiefs

The Kansas City Chiefs will try to get some revenge on the Buffalo Bills in Sunday’s AFC title game. The last time these two teams played each other, the Bills ended the Chiefs' undefeated streak, winning 30-21.

Patrick Mahomes threw for 196 yards and three touchdowns but also tossed two interceptions in the loss. Meanwhile, Josh Allen posted 317 total yards, two total touchdowns, and an interception. 

Therefore, whichever defense can get that critical stop or force turnover, could make a huge difference in the outcome. The Chiefs enter Sunday’s game at full strength on both sides of the ball, which is rare at this time of the year.

However, the Bills have a few notable injuries on defense, which could impact them on Sunday night. 

On Thursday, Cameron Wolfe of the NFL Network reported that Bills safety Taylor Rapp did not practice for the second straight day because of a hip injury. However, linebacker Matt Milano (hamstring soreness) and cornerback Christian Benford (concussion protocol) practiced again and made good progress.

With Rapp missing his second consecutive practice, Buffalo will likely go with rookie defensive back Cole Bishop. Bishop did not play any defensive snaps in the wild-card round against the Denver Broncos but saw 33 defensive snaps in last week’s game against the Baltimore Ravens.

The rookie safety had three combined tackles in the divisional-round win. During the regular season, Bishop recorded 40 combined tackles, two pass deflections, and a forced fumble in 16 games (4 starts).

The second-round pick has struggled a little bit in pass coverage, allowing 18 completions on 25 targets and a 127.4 pass rating when targeted. 

That said, you have to believe Andy Reid and Co. will try to get Bishop matched up with one of KC’s receivers or Travis Kelce. It wouldn’t be surprising to see KC take a couple of deep shots with Xavier Worthy or Hollywood Brown.

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