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The Chiefs franchise and quarterback Patrick Mahomes are currently in uncharted territory.

Following being denied an NFL championship three-peat in February, they dropped the first two contests of the new season.

It is the initial occasion the Chiefs have made an 0-2 record since 2014 – before selecting Mahomes as well as their three Super Bowl wins with head coach Andy Reid.

There are now major concerns over the Chiefs' postseason prospects – as since 1970, only 10.1% of teams who started an 0-2 beginning have gone on to reach the playoffs.

The quarterback has welcomed the challenge, saying: "When facing setbacks, it's about responding positively. I'm excited to the next few weeks and determine which players embrace to be challenged, and how the team can return and really compete aggressively."

What Has Wrong for Kansas City?

Kansas City came into the season having claimed a record 17 consecutive victories during close matchups – when the winning margin is one possession or less.

But they have lost that ability, falling 27-21 to open the season to the Los Angeles Chargers, then 20-17 in last Sunday's Super Bowl replay with Philadelphia.

Questionable discipline along with absences critical personnel have also been reasons in the team's slow start.

A key offensive weapon is serving a multi-game suspension and another dislocated joint during the Chiefs' first drive of the season.

Health issues additionally affected the defensive unit, causing more complications for the team's early performance.

Which Adjustments Have the Chiefs Require?

Arguably the most critical area to address involves pass protection, particularly on the blind side.

After the QB was tackled repeatedly during last Super Bowl, the Chiefs remedied that by selecting a new tackle with their first-round draft pick.

Additionally, they brought in a veteran lineman from a different NFL team.

The team must find an answer regarding their run game – because following serving as their third-leading ball-carrier last season, Mahomes is currently their rushing leader.

That puts him at greater risk physically, an scenario which the staff want to prevent.

Have They Lowered Expectations?

An important offensive player rejoined practice this week and could return in Sunday's prime-time matchup.

The Chiefs will host a tough opponent soon, they're already playing make up ground in the AFC West.

"The Chiefs enter into this game knowing others coming up knowing every one is a must-win, since a rival jumped ahead by two wins in the standings," commented a observer.

"However the Chiefs excel in the occasion during times others are starting to doubt them."

If the Chiefs miss out on a 10th consecutive division crown, they can still reach the play-offs by earning enough wins to clinch a wildcard spot.

"There's that parity," stated a separate analyst. "If you finish at the bottom, they get to select early next year."

"But when you've having a superstar leading plus a legendary coach, among the greatest managers league history, in my view you always have a chance."

"I just think perhaps the definition shifted for what success appears like for them."