Mahomes achieved three touchdown passes as the Chiefs secured the top seed in the AFC by decisively defeating the struggling Steelers with a score of 29-10.

Andy Reid celebrated Christmas Day in a Santa Claus suit within the jubilant Kansas City Chiefs locker room, presenting his team with a gift that increasingly appears well-deserved: home-field advantage throughout the AFC playoffs. The manner in which Reid managed to don the costume so swiftly following Kansas City's decisive 29-10 victory over the struggling Pittsburgh Steelers, securing the top seed in the AFC for the fourth time in seven years, remains somewhat enigmatic (though he suggested the involvement of an elf). However, the consistent ability of Reid's team to distance itself from the competition year after year is clear.

A significant contribution from Patrick Mahomes, complemented by Travis Kelce, an infusion of speed, and a defense that diligently executes its duties, even when its leader is on the sidelines in casual attire, are key factors. While the pursuit of a third consecutive championship has at times been less than aesthetically pleasing by Kansas City's high standards, as the playoffs approach, the team that appeared vulnerable for much of the season now seems to be finding its rhythm. Once again, the path to the Super Bowl will lead through Arrowhead Stadium, precisely as the Chiefs prefer. “Securing the No. 1 seed is crucial,” Mahomes remarked after passing for 320 yards and three touchdowns. “It feels akin to winning a playoff game,” even if the manner in which the Chiefs achieved it did not entirely evoke that sentiment. Kansas City (15-1) spent three hours playfully engaging with the Steelers (10-6), akin to a cat batting at remnants of wrapping paper. The Chiefs established an early 13-point lead and were never genuinely threatened by Pittsburgh, which has now lost three consecutive games, further diminishing its chances of winning the AFC North. “That was disappointing, to put it bluntly,” stated Steelers coach Mike Tomlin.

Pittsburgh frequently finds itself at a disadvantage when facing Mahomes across the line of scrimmage. Mahomes has maintained an undefeated record of 4-0 against the Steelers, boasting an impressive tally of 17 touchdowns compared to a single interception. In the first half, he successfully connected with Xavier Worthy and Justin Watson for scoring passes, and later solidified the victory with a record-setting 12-yard touchdown pass to Kelce in the fourth quarter. This reception marked the 77th touchdown catch of Kelce's career, surpassing the franchise record previously held by Hall of Famer Tony Gonzalez. The 35-year-old Kelce celebrated this achievement by performing a dunk over the goal post, reminiscent of Gonzalez's iconic celebration. Although this act resulted in a 15-yard unsportsmanlike conduct penalty, it had little impact on the game. Harrison Butker successfully converted the longer extra point, ensuring the Chiefs maintained a strong lead. "It's just showing Tony some love," Kelce remarked with a chuckle, coinciding with his milestone of joining Gonzalez and Jason Witten as the only tight ends to achieve 1,000 receptions. Kelce concluded the game with eight receptions for 84 yards, contributing to an offense that is regaining its confidence. The defense also performed admirably, even in the absence of five-time Pro Bowl defensive end Chris Jones due to a calf injury. Jones' teammates displayed remarkable stamina despite playing their third game in 11 days. "It was tough," cornerback Trent McDuffie acknowledged. "Three games in 11 days is challenging for anyone, but I believe we managed it well." In contrast, the Steelers struggled, finishing with a 0-3 record during this challenging stretch against formidable Super Bowl contenders Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Kansas City, where they appeared outmatched. More concerning than the defeats is the manner in which they occurred, with Pittsburgh losing each game by a margin of at least 14 points. This performance could jeopardize their chances of starting the postseason at home, especially after squandering a two-game division lead just three weeks prior. "There are highs and lows in every season," Pittsburgh quarterback Russell Wilson stated after throwing for 205 yards, including a poorly timed interception in the end zone during the first quarter. "We need to improve."

The situation in Kansas City has not posed a problem for several years, particularly with Mahomes leading the team. He successfully distributed his 29 completions among eight different receivers, achieving a personal best of eight completions to Worthy and four to Hollywood Brown. Brown's return from injury has provided the Chiefs with an additional offensive weapon, contributing to what appears to be a formidable lineup. "We are playing, especially on offense, our best football of the year," Mahomes remarked, and the evidence supports this claim. The two-time MVP seemed unfazed by the ankle injury he sustained against Cleveland, as he threw touchdown passes to conclude Kansas City's initial two drives. Although the Steelers managed to narrow the score to 13-7 and 16-10, they never had possession of the ball with an opportunity to take the lead in the second half. Instead, the Chiefs, who had previously struggled to secure victories during the first three months of the season, surged ahead to claim the No. 1 seed, allowing them several weeks to rest before pursuing a potential three-peat, which now appears achievable. Injury updates include Chiefs' RB Isiah Pacheco, who left the game in the second half due to a rib injury, while Steelers' DT Cam Heyward briefly exited in the fourth quarter but was able to return. Looking ahead, the Chiefs will conclude the regular season with a game in Denver, while the Steelers will host Cincinnati in their final matchup.