We all are aware of what the Chiefs are capable of, right? At times, it almost feels like the team went into Super Saiyan mode. Not even Josh Allen’s Bills could stand in front of them. The team’s players shoot like snipers and score touchdowns like nuclear bombs. I know Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce must’ve come to your mind when I said that, didn’t they? But hold up a second, do you really think it’ll be a piece of cake for them to win the 3-peat? They are facing a team with a defense considered impenetrable this season. This February 9th is going to be like watching Hamilton on Broadway—an experience we will never forget.

We are just a few days shy of judgment day, and the recent performances from the Eagles‘ defense have been nothing short of a masterclass. When do you really know that a team has made an impact on its rivals? When the opponents start praising their caliber. We got to witness something like that in an X post by Chiefs’ analyst Pete Sweeney. TE Travis Kelce himself put his respect on the Eagles’ defense and said, “When it comes down to playing man, they’re very physical. So, it’s going to be our biggest challenge yet. I haven’t even talked about the D-line yet. The D-line is one of the best in the league. I mean, it’s going to be a fun challenge, man. I love going up against the best. It’s why I play the game.” 

You can see the true sportsman quality in Travis Kelce when he said that. Not many have the confidence to praise their rivals, but you know, right? Only the best recognize the best. The Eagles’ defense has been a force all season, ranking among the best in key areas. Their linebackers have allowed just 5.6 yards per target—the best mark in the NFL—while edge rusher Nolan Smith has exploded with 10.5 sacks in his last 15 games, including 4.0 in the playoffs. On the interior, Jalen Carter and Milton Williams will look to exploit the Chiefs’ weakened offensive line, which has surrendered a 9.0% interior pressure rate since Week 15, the fourth-highest in the league. With players like C.J. Gardner-Johnson also in the mix, the Eagles’ defense has the firepower to disrupt Patrick Mahomes and dictate the game.

Not just Travis, but the big man Andy Reid himself praised the Eagles’ defense led by Vic Fangio. In an episode of The Pat McAfee Show, he couldn’t help but share his views on the topic. “He’s got a great scheme, and that defense plays their hearts out… Vic is as good as anybody in this league, man.” And Andy is not just saying it for the sake of it. Vic joined the Eagles last year and, in no time, turned their defense into something monstrous. As Travis Kelce reaches the final years of his career, he better bring his A-game while he’s still part of the great show.

What does the future hold for Travis Kelce’s career?

Do you remember recently when Jason Kelce was stuck in a dilemma about whether he should go to the Eagles game or support his brother in the AFC showdown? He said one thing that created a buzz on the internet: “I don’t know, I’m kind of torn. I want to be there for the Eagles, but I also want to be there for my brother. I don’t know how many more he has.” And not long ago, Travis’s buddy Patrick Mahomes also said, “If it’s his last game, let’s go out there and get him a win.” All these comments hinted at his retirement, which Travis has never clearly talked about.

Well, well, well, we recently got some clarity on this topic from Travis himself. Travis made it loud and clear that he’s got a lot left in his tank. In an X post by an NFL reporter, the tweet read, “I’ve got a full heart of football left in me. Wanting to keep the legacy & find new ways to create memories will fuel me in my love for football.” And also, “I think everybody (in the family) outside of Jason & Kylie will be wearing red.” Seems like the show is not over for Travis, even if the Eagles’ defense gets the best of them in New Orleans.