In a commanding performance, the Kansas City Chiefs secured a decisive 28-7 victory against the Washington Commanders on October 30, 2023. The game marked a significant milestone for tight end Travis Kelce, who tied the franchise record for total touchdowns by scoring his 83rd career touchdown. This achievement places him alongside former running back Priest Holmes in the annals of Chiefs history.
Inside Arrowhead Stadium, the atmosphere was electric as fireworks lit up the night sky following Kelce’s 10-yard touchdown reception late in the third quarter. Quarterback Patrick Mahomes recognized the importance of the moment, promptly handing the ball to a team staffer for Kelce to keep as a memento. “I just cherish these moments, man, being able to play at Arrowhead,” Kelce reflected. “This place is special, man, and I love it here.”
The Chiefs’ victory was their fifth in the past six games, with each win coming by a margin of ten points or more. Kelce had an impressive outing, leading the team with six receptions on eight targets for a total of 99 yards. Mahomes praised Kelce’s contributions, stating, “He’s the true Chiefs’ Chief… He helped set the culture of what it means to play for Coach [Andy] Reid.”
Kelce’s journey to this historic moment began with a rocky start. The first time Mahomes targeted him on Monday night, the play resulted in a 1-yard loss. Following this, an errant pass intended for Kelce was intercepted by Commanders linebacker Bobby Wagner, leaving the score tied at 7-7 at halftime. “When we decided in the second half to just rally together… we ended up putting some points on the board,” Kelce noted, emphasizing the team’s determination.
The Chiefs adjusted their strategy in the second half, responding to the Commanders’ energy with a more aggressive approach. Kelce’s knack for exploiting zone coverage proved invaluable, as all his production came against the Commanders’ defensive scheme. His touchdown was set up by a well-timed out route that created separation from safety Darnell Savage.
Receiver Rashee Rice acknowledged Kelce’s influence, stating, “He didn’t have to say too much, but just for him to say I need to get going, it still meant a lot.” This camaraderie and leadership have been pivotal for the Chiefs as they navigate the season.
One of the game’s highlights came early in the third quarter when Kelce executed a block before leaking out for a crucial 38-yard gain that propelled the Chiefs into the red zone. Mahomes commented on the play, noting that despite the lack of explosive plays, the defenses were respecting their offensive threats. “He just released because he saw no one was guarding him,” Mahomes explained.
With this latest touchdown, Kelce and Mahomes have now joined an elite group as the third quarterback-tight end duo in NFL history to record a total of 75 touchdowns together, a feat only previously achieved by Tom Brady and Rob Gronkowski (105 touchdowns) and Philip Rivers and Antonio Gates (90 touchdowns).
As the game concluded, Kelce expressed his joy, stating, “I’m just the old, lucky dog still able to do this thing, man. I’m putting on the pads like I’m 15 years old again.” His passion for the game and the franchise shines through, making every touchdown a testament to his dedication to the Kansas City Chiefs.
