Chiefs Secure First Win as Reid Praises Kelce’s Passion

The Kansas City Chiefs achieved their first victory of the season with a 22-9 win over the New York Giants on September 24, 2023, at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The game was marked by a notable sideline exchange between tight end Travis Kelce and head coach Andy Reid, which captured the attention of viewers.

During the second quarter, cameras showed a heated discussion between Reid and Kelce on the Chiefs’ sideline. The coach was seen responding vigorously to Kelce, even using his shoulder to end the interaction. Following the game, Reid addressed the incident, emphasizing his appreciation for Kelce’s competitive spirit. “I love Travis’ passion, man,” Reid stated. “We didn’t have enough of it in the second quarter. He knows when to back off the pedal and knows when to push it, too.”

Despite the tense moment, Kelce’s emotional investment in the game is something Reid values. He noted, “That’s the part I love about him. The guy is all-in. Sometimes, I have to be the policeman. He’s an emotional guy.” Kelce, a 13-year veteran, was absent from the locker room during post-game interviews, indicating the intensity of the situation.

At the time of the exchange, the Chiefs were struggling offensively. Although they led 6-0, they had just missed an opportunity to extend their lead after a promising defensive play. Safety Chris Roland-Wallace secured the team’s first interception of the season, giving quarterback Patrick Mahomes favorable field position at the Giants’ 47-yard line. However, a drop by rookie running back Brashard Smith and a two-yard loss on a pass to Kelce halted the drive, culminating in a missed 40-yard field goal attempt by kicker Harrison Butker.

Mahomes commented on the sideline incident, stating he had not witnessed the exchange but acknowledged Kelce’s passion for the game. “He’s a guy that loves it,” Mahomes said. “I know they love each other. That’s what you want out of the greats.”

In the previous week’s game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Kelce had also shown his frustration, slamming his helmet and shouting at Reid during a loss. Reflecting on his emotional outbursts, Kelce said on the “New Heights” podcast, which he co-hosts with his brother Jason Kelce, “I need to [expletive] answer that bell, man.”

Despite a slow start, Kelce finished the game with four receptions for 26 yards, contributing to a better overall performance from the Chiefs’ offense in the second half. Mahomes led two touchdown drives, solidifying the team’s victory.

As Kelce departed the field, he was seen smiling and congratulating teammates, celebrating their first win of the season. Reid downplayed the sideline incident, reiterating his fondness for Kelce’s passion. “Don’t make too much of it,” he advised. “It’s an emotional game, so I take it all.”

The Chiefs’ win marks a positive shift as they look to build momentum for the remainder of the season.