The Chiefs did like the Royals and ended Houston's season. The Chiefs won their first playoff game in 22 years by beating the Houston Texans by a score of 30-0. It's the first playoff shutout since 2005.
The Chiefs defensive performance was absolutely dominant. Four interceptions and a fumble. What a day for the Chiefs defense. The offense wasn't quite itself but the defense did more than enough to make up for it.
The playoff streak is over
FINALLY. The Chiefs hadn't won a playoff game since January 16, 1994. That's nearly 22 years. Eight straight losses, which tied an NFL record. Joe Montana, a former 49ers quarterback, was leading the Chiefs back in 1994. And this year it was Alex Smith, a former 49ers quarterback, doing the same.
Broncos or Patriots?
They'll play either the Broncos or Patriots. If the Steelers win, it'll be the Patriots. If the Bengals win, it'll be the Broncos. Either way, it will be on the road.
The Jeremy Maclin injury hurts
Maclin went down with a knee injury. Doctors came on the field and a few minutes later Maclin was shown on the sidelines clearly emotional. So we're guessing this injury isn't good. And it's a shame because Maclin has been so good for the Chiefs this year.
Does this mean the Chiefs are screwed? No, it does not. Obviously, it doesn't help. But the Chiefs won without Jamaal Charles. They won without Jamaal Charles AND Justin Houston. This team knows just wins anyway.
So I'm all in. The Chiefs can still be very competitive with or without Maclin.
Is Justin Houston OK?
Houston had his leg buckle on one play and he went to the sidelines, which freaked everyone out. He came back in but didn't seem quite as explosive as he normally is. Houston had been out since Week 12 with what the Chiefs called a hyperextended knee so this was his first game back. Was he just rusty or is he hurt?
NFL playoff schedule
Saturday, Jan. 16
AFC Divisional Round Game 1: New England Patriots vs. highest seed, 3:35 p.m., CBS
NFC Divisional Round Game 1: Arizona Cardinals vs. highest seed, 7:15 p.m., NBC
Sunday, Jan. 17
NFC Divisional Round Game 2: Carolina Panthers vs. lowest seed, 12:05 p.m., FOX
AFC Divisional Round Game 2: Denver Broncos vs. lowest seed, 3:40 p.m., CBS