Arrowhead Pride
As the Kansas City Chiefs prepare to take the field in Sunday’s AFC Championship game against the Buffalo Bills, head coach Andy Reid continues to embody the steady leadership that has become synonymous with his tenure. Addressing the media in his final press conference before the big game, Reid emphasized consistency, preparation and a sense of excitement as the team readies itself for its latest postseason challenge.
When asked about what his final message, Reid reiterated the importance of maintaining a consistent approach despite the high stakes.
“We try to keep things as consistent as we can with all the extra this,” Reid said. “But you understand that there are two teams in the NFC, two teams in the AFC playing, and that’s it.”
This no-nonsense approach reflects the culture he’s instilled throughout the organization: treat every game with the same focus and preparation, whether it’s Week 2 or the championship stage.
The availability of key players is always a hot topic leading into such pivotal games. Reid addressed the situation with offensive tackle D.J. Humphries, who is no longer on the injury report but might not start.
“We’ve been rotating him again, which we do in practice, but it’ll probably end up being the same, yeah,” Reid shared, suggesting the Chiefs are likely to stick with Joe Thuney in the starting role.
This methodical rotation and decision-making process reflects Reid’s belief in preparation and depth. The next-man-up mentality has become a cornerstone of the team’s success.
While this is the Chiefs' seventh AFC Championship game in a row, Reid acknowledged that every game brings its own unique atmosphere. When asked if this game feels different, he gave an honest yet balanced response.
“That’s a loaded question,” Reid stated. “Because it feels different than a regular game because you know you’re in the championship game, but at the same time, we try to keep things as consistent as you can with all the extra things.”
The Chiefs’ ability to maintain a “business as usual” mindset in high-pressure situations has undoubtedly contributed to their continued dominance in the AFC.
Reflecting on the team’s growth since their first championship game appearance under his leadership, Reid credited the players for their preparation and adaptability.
“You’d have to ask them,” Reid said when asked about the mood in the locker room. “They’ve all reacted the same way. They’ve come out, and they’ve practiced hard and tried to get themselves ready the best they can.”
Reid also downplayed the idea of nerves being more prevalent in earlier years.
“I didn’t get in there and look at that part of it. I mean, the guys, they’d probably all be different on how you weighed that out,” he said.
The discussion shifted to whether coaches feel the pressure of the moment, a question Reid addressed with characteristic poise.
“I don’t know if it’s the pressure,” he admitted. “I think it’s just that you’re excited to get going. Just like the players will be excited to get going,...
