Raiders’ Crosby and Chiefs’ Mahomes Fuel Historic NFL Rivalry

LAS VEGAS, Nev. — The Las Vegas Raiders and Kansas City Chiefs continue to fuel one of the NFL’s most storied rivalries, with star players Maxx Crosby and Patrick Mahomes leading the charge. The AFC West foes, who face off twice annually, have delivered some of the league’s most thrilling matchups in recent years.

Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby, widely regarded as one of the NFL’s top defensive players, has emerged as a key figure in slowing down Mahomes and the Chiefs’ high-powered offense. Despite Kansas City’s dominance in the rivalry since Mahomes took over as quarterback in 2018, Crosby has consistently challenged the two-time MVP.

“I went to the locker room after the game, I am not going to lie, that is impressive,” Crosby said, referencing the Chiefs’ offensive line tactics. “Because he is the only one who is somewhat getting away with it. He is earlier and he knows he is early. I respect it though; he sticks to it.”

The mutual respect between the two stars is evident. Crosby revealed on NFL GameDay Morning that he and Mahomes maintain contact off the field. “Oh yeah, for sure,” Crosby said. “We have each other’s number, you know what I mean. It is mutual respect at the end of the day. He knows I am going after him, and it goes both ways. And he is a living legend. At the end of the day, I got to destroy him every time I see him.”

The Raiders-Chiefs rivalry dates back to the AFL days in the 1960s, with the teams combining for 130 regular-season meetings. Kansas City currently holds a 72-54-2 advantage in the series, including a 10-4 record since Mahomes became the starter. However, Crosby’s presence has kept the Raiders competitive, with the defensive end recording 7.5 sacks and 15 quarterback hits in his last six games against Kansas City.

As the rivalry continues to evolve, the Crosby-Mahomes matchup remains a focal point for NFL fans. Their combination of elite talent, competitive fire, and mutual admiration ensures that Raiders-Chiefs games remain must-watch television in the AFC West.