The rivalry between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Cincinnati Bengals has intensified over the past few years, particularly following several high-stakes matchups. Even as the Chiefs gear up to face a different opponent this weekend, that rivalry remains strong. Bengals standout Ja’Marr Chase, despite missing the playoffs this season due to early defensive struggles, is not inclined to support Kansas City during the big game.
Chase enjoyed a remarkable season, leading the league in touchdown receptions, receiving yards, and total catches to secure the receiving triple crown. His stellar performance earned him a place in this weekend’s Pro Bowl, where he was asked whom he would root for in the upcoming Super Bowl LIX between the Philadelphia Eagles and the Kansas City Chiefs. Unsurprisingly, Chase expressed his allegiance to the Eagles, hoping for a big game from star running back Saquon Barkley. “Everyone knows I’m not a KC fan, so I’m hoping Saquon rushes for like 200 in this game,” Chase said on ESPN.
This rivalry has its roots in the 2021 AFC Championship Game, where Cincinnati made a stunning comeback from a significant halftime deficit to defeat Kansas City and advance to the Super Bowl. Although the Bengals have struggled against the Chiefs since that victory, they still take pride in being the last team to hand Kansas City a postseason loss.
Chase’s remarks have ignited a wave of reactions from fans. One fan expressed, “Love this! I’m glad that even though they’ve been down the last couple of years, Chase still keeps up his hate on the Chiefs. This kind of stuff from players is what makes rivalries fun.” Another chimed in, “Woulda loved to see another Bengals / Chiefs AFC Championship match up.” Additional comments included, “He will never in his life root for the Chiefs…”, and “The obligatory yearly video of him at the pro bowl watching the Chiefs in the Super Bowl.” Others echoed sentiments of admiration for Chase: “Genuinely, I love this dude. We need this disdain back in sports,” and “The man is consistent.” This certainly has developed into one of the NFL’s most exciting rivalries.
