'He's kind of like Kobe' – Buffalo Bills LB Von Miller on how they're preparing to defend Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes
Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes and Buffalo Bills linebacker Von Miller know each other very well. Their rivalry dates back to 2018 when Miller was still with the Chiefs' rival Denver Broncos. Mahomes has bested Miller in the win-loss column, but Miller has had some individual success against Mahomes. Like most rivals, the two […]
Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes and Buffalo Bills linebacker Von Miller know each other very well.
Their rivalry dates back to 2018 when Miller was still with the Chiefs' rival Denver Broncos. Mahomes has bested Miller in the win-loss column, but Miller has had some individual success against Mahomes. Like most rivals, the two have built a mutual respect for one another.
They will meet again on Sunday as the Chiefs host the Bills in the AFC Championship game. While Mahomes is still in the prime of his career, the 14-year veteran Miller is winding down. However, Miller did post six sacks in 2024, proving that he's still a threat.
When asked by the media on Wednesday what issues Miller still presents on defense, Mahomes pointed to Miller's leadership ability.
“He’s still just an extreme play maker," Mahomes said. "He’s an effective pass rusher, knows how to get to the football and it seems like he knows how to make plays in the biggest moments – he’s one of those guys. Someone you have to account for on every single snap and just like last week he makes a big play – it seems like he makes a big play. That’s why he was a Super Bowl MVP. They have a really good defense (Bills) just in general but he’s definitely a leader on that team.”
Miller also spoke to the media on Wednesday and was asked a similar question.
"I wish I had a magic play that we could draw up, and I would be calling it every single play," Miller said. "He's just one of those players, kind of like Kobe (Bryant). He's going to score his shots. He's going to score his points, no matter if you have two guys on him or one guy. Doesn't matter if you're playing man or zone or rushing him. He's going to make plays, we've just got to make a few more plays than him."
The Chiefs currently have a bit of a makeshift offensive line with left guard Joe Thuney switching to left tackle back in Week 15 and career backup Mike Caliendo filling in at left guard. They will both have to be able to match Miller not only physically, but mentally. Chiefs coach Andy Reid has done a nice job of scheming against Miller in past matchups, and Mahomes will certainly be aware of Miller's whereabouts at all times.
