'That's really why you want to play this game' – Chiefs CB Trent McDuffie on facing Texans' best offensive weapon
One of the biggest key matchups in Saturday's divisional round game between the Kansas City Chiefs and Houston Texans will be cornerback Trent McDuffie against wide receiver Nico Collins. McDuffie had another stellar season for Kansas City in 2024, recording 59 tackles (six for loss), two interceptions, 13 passes defensed (a career-high), one forced fumble, and […]
One of the biggest key matchups in Saturday's divisional round game between the Kansas City Chiefs and Houston Texans will be cornerback Trent McDuffie against wide receiver Nico Collins.
McDuffie had another stellar season for Kansas City in 2024, recording 59 tackles (six for loss), two interceptions, 13 passes defensed (a career-high), one forced fumble, and one sack. Unfortunately, he was snubbed from being named an All-Pro and to the Pro Bowl Games.
Aside from having to miss five games with a hamstring injury, Collins had another big year for Texans – catching 68 passes for 1,006 yards and seven touchdowns. He had to carry the load as Houston's top receiving option with Stefon Diggs and Tank Dell both landing on injured reserve. Collins did earn a 2024 Pro Bowl nod.
While speaking to the media on Tuesday, McDuffie had nothing but praise for Collins' game, while also saying that he thrives on facing receivers the caliber of Collins.
"I love going against players like this," McDuffie said. "I call him a complete receiver. He's big, he's physical, he's fast, has good hands. His connection with CJ [Texans QB C.J. Stroud], you can tell is at an all-time high. They're kind of click on all cylinders, and he's their number one receiver. That's really why you want to play this game – to go against the best competition in a game that means a lot in the playoffs. So, I'm excited to go against him knowing what he's going to come into this game with. I'm ready to go compete."
Collins was productive against the Chiefs when the two met back in Week 16, catching seven passes on 10 targets for 60 yards. However, at six yards per catch, he wasn't exactly explosive. McDuffie recorded five tackles (two for loss) and one pass defensed on the day.
McDuffie and the rest of K.C.'s secondary will certainly be keying in on Collins during Saturday's game. There could be help on the way with the likely return of cornerback Jaylen Watson. Hopefully we get at least a few good battles between two of the NFL's best in McDuffie and Collins.
Andy Reid, Patrick Mahomes know the biggest challenge the Chiefs’ offense will face vs. Texans’ defense
They have their hands full.
