Dalton Kincaid's heartbreaking drop costly for Bills' Super Bowl hopes

Originally posted on Utah Utes on SI | By Jason Jones | Last updated Jan 26, 2025 10:48 PM ET

The Buffalo Bills' hopes of reaching the Super Bowl were dashed in heartbreaking fashion during Sunday’s AFC Championship game, as former Utah Utes standout Dalton Kincaid suffered a crucial fourth down drop on their final possession. In a game that lived up to its billing, the Bills fell 32-29 to the Kansas City Chiefs, marking another painful chapter in their postseason rivalry.

With 3:33 remaining in the fourth quarter, the Bills took over possession, trailing by three points. Quarterback Josh Allen orchestrated a determined drive, bringing Buffalo near midfield as the clock ticked down. Facing a critical fourth and five out of the two-minute warning, Allen launched a high pass to Kincaid, who had been a reliable target throughout the season. However, Kincaid misjudged the near jump ball, and the pass slipped through his hands, sealing the Bills’ fate. The Chiefs took over on downs and ran out the clock, sending Buffalo home empty-handed once again.

"That shoulda been caught." - Tony Romo pic.twitter.com/wb8upxumcg
— NFL on CBS (@NFLonCBS) January 27, 2025

Kincaid sat dejected on the sideline as the Chiefs celebrated their victory and claimed the Lamar Hunt Trophy for the third straight year. The drop was an uncharacteristic misstep for the rookie tight end, who had emerged as a key weapon in the Bills’ offense this season. Though the loss cannot be placed squarely on one play, Kincaid’s miscue will be remembered as a pivotal moment in Buffalo’s heartbreaking defeat.

AFC Championship has 'Holy War' storyline with many Utah ties

The Chiefs, led by Patrick Mahomes, proved their dominance once again. Mahomes delivered an efficient performance, going 18-of-26 for 245 yards and a touchdown. Meanwhile, BYU alumnus and Chiefs head coach Andy Reid downplayed the significance of pursuing a third straight Super Bowl title, though the historic implications will dominate headlines leading up to the big game.

For the Bills, the loss extends a painful drought. They have not reached the Super Bowl in over three decades and have been eliminated by the Chiefs in three of their last four playoff appearances. The rivalry continues to tilt in Kansas City’s favor, leaving Buffalo to grapple with yet another offseason of heartbreak.

Super Bowl LIX will feature a rematch of two years ago between the Chiefs and Philadelphia Eagles. The clash of titans in New Orleans on Sunday, February 9th will kickoff at 6:30 p.m. ET on FOX.

This article first appeared on Utah Utes on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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