The AFC West-leading Broncos (8-2) are tied with the Chiefs (5-4), who have won the division nine straight years but have significant ground to make up to keep the streak going, 6-6 at the break.

In a game with huge implications for both teams, the first half was defined by missed opportunities. 

The Broncos got the ball first and drove methodically into the red zone, but the drive stalled out there, with an R.J. Harvey trick pass nearly getting picked off and Bo Nix getting sacked two plays later.

Denver quickly forced a punt, and Marvin Mims Jr.’s 70-yard return set the host’s offense up at the 11-yard line. Again, though, they couldn’t cash in fully, with the Kansas City defense bailing out the special teams nicely and limiting Denver to another short Wil Lutz field goal.

The Chiefs’ missed opportunities have mostly been on a few Patrick Mahomes deep passes. He missed Xavier Worthy on an open one early and was unable to connect on a few other opportunities as well. The Chiefs’ field goals both came on lengthy drives ultimately derailed by penalties.

Both defenses have been as advertised … and then some. Mahomes is 17-for-24 but for just 125 yards, and he’s been sacked twice. Kansas City’s biggest gain was a 40-yard pass interference penalty against Riley Moss. Nix also took two sacks in the first half and is 10-for-15 for just 80 yards. The Chiefs had some success on the ground but haven’t committed to it much. Denver, without J.K. Dobbins, is getting next to nothing in that department.

Will either offense get going in the second half? Or will defense continue to rule the day? Keep up with our analysis below.