The New England Patriots, the closest thing to a dynasty the league has seen in a long time, are within two games of another championship.
The Patriots beat the Kansas City Chiefs, 27-20, in the AFC Divisional Playoffs Saturday afternoon. Kansas City’s final touchdown came with 73 seconds to play, making the final score seem closer than the game was. The Patriots led by 21-6 at one point.
This will be New England’s fifth straight trip to the AFC title game.
“I’m really proud of our team,’’ Coach Bill Belichick said. “This week in practice was probably one of our best weeks ever. It’s great to move on to the AFC Championship game. It’s always an honor to be part of that game … That’s what we’re here for. To win.’’
Julian Edelman caught 10 passes for 100 yards, including a crucial first down on a deflected pass late in the game to allow the Patriots to run out the clock.
For the Chiefs, Alex Smith threw it 50 times for 246 yards, but the Chiefs also lacked their normal balance.
“It’s pretty special to get back to another AFC championship game,” said Brady, who will play in his 10th conference title game. “It’s pretty cool. It’s hard to do man. You’ve got to grind throughout the entire year. There’s only four teams playing next week, and we’re one of them. That game means a lot.”
New England next plays in the AFC title game, either home against Pittsburgh or on the road against the Broncos.
