Postseason football always has a certain level of intensity, and Sunday’s game between the Buffalo Bills and Kansas City Chiefs is the latest installment of a fierce playoff rivalry. One of the league’s most fervent fanbases would undoubtedly give it their all.
Some fans praised the electrifying atmosphere at Highmark Stadium, with Kansas City coach Andy Reid among those who enjoyed that intensity. Some, like Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce, didn’t respond to the Bills Mafia heckling as favorably, though.
In the most recent installment of Kelce’s New Heights podcast, co-hosted by his brother, Philadelphia Eagles center Jason Kelce, the star tight end disclosed that he took offense at certain personal jabs directed at him by Bills supporters. He added that he intended his heart-hand celebration—which drew inspiration from his girlfriend Taylor Swift—as a response to some of the remarks he had been receiving.
Travis Kelce uttered the words, “Had to spread the love, baby, always gotta spread that love.” “Man, it makes sense that there would be a lot of hate when the Bills were playing, it’s a football game, and they wanted to make it wild.” Did it start to sound a little rude? One thousand times. Did it become a bit excessive? One thousand percent. “Some really inappropriate things were said about Pat Mahomes, and some things about the families were said. It was pretty crazy.” I understand and appreciate that they are entering a hostile environment, but I wanted to make sure they understood that it wasn’t reciprocal. It’s all love, baby; I don’t hate you guys the way you hate us.”
Jason Kelce, on the other hand, had the time of his life as he dominated the game with his shirtless celebrations, especially following Travis Kelce’s two touchdown receptions.
Jason Kelce exclaimed, “I mean, honestly, one of the most fun experiences I’ve ever had from start to finish.”
The Chiefs have been the NFL’s elite team for many years, and they recently advanced to their sixth consecutive AFC Championship Game, which has infuriated many NFL fans. With three playoff losses in four years, the Chiefs have burned the Bills more than any other team during that time. Therefore, even though adding some intensity might be natural, it’s crucial to stay within reasonable bounds.