The Kansas City Chiefs have played in several frigid playoff games, with temperatures dropping as low as -7°F in memorable matchups.

The Kansas City Chiefs are no strangers to cold weather. Arrowhead Stadium, the team’s legendary home, has been the site of many unforgettable playoff games throughout the years. While these games are memorable for their high stakes, competitive intensity, and dramatic moments, some have gained an added layer of significance due to the bone-chilling cold that accompanied them. In fact, the Chiefs have played in some of the coldest playoff games in NFL history, with temperatures plunging as low as -7°F. This article will explore the top five coldest playoff games in Kansas City Chiefs history, analyzing how the frigid conditions affected the players, the fans, and the overall outcome of each game.

1. 1981 AFC Championship: Chiefs vs. Chargers

• Date: January 24, 1981
• Temperature: -7°F
• Location: Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City, MO
• Result: Chiefs 38, Chargers 41

The 1981 AFC Championship between the Kansas City Chiefs and the San Diego Chargers is perhaps one of the most iconic and memorable games in the franchise’s history, not just for the intense rivalry between the teams, but for the record-breaking cold temperatures that accompanied it. Arrowhead Stadium, known for its rowdy atmosphere and deafening noise, was also known for its brutal winter conditions. On this particular day, the thermometer read a staggering -7°F at kickoff, making it one of the coldest playoff games ever played in the NFL.

The freezing conditions created a uniquely challenging environment for both teams. Fans were bundled in layers of clothing, huddling together to stay warm, while the players had to contend with the bitter cold that affected their ability to catch the ball, throw with precision, and even hold onto the football. The cold, however, did not seem to affect the intensity of the game. The Chiefs were on the verge of advancing to the Super Bowl, but a late touchdown from the Chargers, and a missed field goal by the Chiefs, meant the team fell short by just three points. The Chiefs ultimately lost 41-38, but the game would remain in the hearts of Chiefs fans as a heart-pounding, cold-weather thriller.

2. 1993 AFC Wild Card: Chiefs vs. Steelers

• Date: December 26, 1993
• Temperature: -5°F
• Location: Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City, MO
• Result: Chiefs 27, Steelers 24 (OT)

The 1993 AFC Wild Card game between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Pittsburgh Steelers is another historically cold game that left an indelible mark on the franchise. Arrowhead Stadium was again the venue, and the temperature at kickoff was a staggering -5°F, with the wind chill making it feel even colder. Despite the harsh conditions, the game would go on to become one of the most dramatic playoff games in Chiefs history.

The Chiefs and Steelers battled back and forth, with the game eventually reaching overtime. The cold was so extreme that it affected everything from the players’ hands to the kicking game. The freezing temperatures played a role in muffed kicks and missed opportunities, but neither team let the elements dictate the outcome. The Chiefs emerged victorious in a thrilling 27-24 overtime win, with Joe Montana leading a memorable comeback. Despite the tough cold, Montana’s calm leadership helped the Chiefs advance, and this game remains a fan favorite for its heart-stopping finish and the frigid battle on the field.

3. 1997 AFC Wild Card: Chiefs vs. Dolphins

• Date: December 28, 1997
• Temperature: 8°F
• Location: Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City, MO
• Result: Chiefs 17, Dolphins 22

The 1997 AFC Wild Card game between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Miami Dolphins is another entry in this list, notable not only for the freezing cold but also for the heartbreaking outcome. The temperature at Arrowhead Stadium was 8°F, with winds making it feel much colder. The Chiefs, led by quarterback Elvis Grbac, came into the game looking to advance, but the Dolphins had other plans.

As the cold took its toll on both teams, it seemed that no one could get a foothold. The Dolphins’ offense, despite struggling in the frozen conditions, managed to make the key plays when it mattered most. The Chiefs’ defense and offense, despite strong performances, could not overcome the Miami team. The Chiefs lost 22-17, ending their playoff run. The frigid temperatures made this loss all the more painful for the players and fans who had to brave the cold only to see their team fall short. Even still, the game is remembered as a testament to the resilience of both teams playing under brutal conditions.

4. 2017 AFC Wild Card: Chiefs vs. Titans

• Date: January 6, 2018
• Temperature: 10°F
• Location: Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City, MO
• Result: Chiefs 21, Titans 22

In one of the most disappointing losses in recent Chiefs playoff history, the 2017 AFC Wild Card game saw the Kansas City Chiefs face off against the Tennessee Titans in an absolutely frigid contest. The temperature at Arrowhead Stadium was a biting 10°F, and the cold seemed to affect both teams throughout the game. The Chiefs, who had a potent offense led by Patrick Mahomes, were expected to dominate the game, but the cold conditions and a few costly turnovers left them vulnerable.

The Titans managed to capitalize on the Chiefs’ mistakes, and despite leading for much of the game, Kansas City found themselves on the wrong side of a 22-21 loss. The cold and the early mistakes would haunt the Chiefs throughout the offseason, as they missed a golden opportunity to advance further in the postseason. Chiefs fans braved the cold weather, but ultimately, their team could not withstand the pressure, making this one of the coldest and most painful playoff losses in recent history.

5. 2019 AFC Championship: Chiefs vs. Titans

• Date: January 19, 2020
• Temperature: 19°F
• Location: Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City, MO
• Result: Chiefs 35, Titans 24

While not as frigid as the previous entries, the 2019 AFC Championship between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Tennessee Titans still saw a significant drop in temperatures to 19°F, making it one of the colder playoff games in recent memory. The stakes were incredibly high, as the winner of the game would earn a trip to Super Bowl LIV, and Chiefs fans were eager for a victory.

Despite the cold, the Chiefs’ offense, led by Patrick Mahomes, was unstoppable. Mahomes had an incredible performance in the game, throwing for 294 yards and three touchdowns. The Chiefs’ offense was so electric that even the bitter temperatures couldn’t slow them down. The Chiefs emerged victorious in a 35-24 win, advancing to their first Super Bowl appearance in 50 years. The cold was a factor, but it wasn’t enough to hinder the Chiefs’ performance. Fans packed Arrowhead Stadium, undeterred by the chill, and the team’s win was a sweet reward for their unwavering support in the frigid weather.