Chiefs-Raiders Rivalry
One of the NFL's most bitter rivalries, spanning over six decades.
The Chiefs–Raiders rivalry is a National Football League (NFL) rivalry between the Kansas City Chiefs and Las Vegas Raiders. The rivalry is considered one of the NFL's most bitter. Since the American Football League (AFL) was established in 1960, the Chiefs and Raiders have shared the same division, first the AFL Western Conference, and since the AFL–NFL merger, the AFC West. The Chiefs lead the overall series, 76–56–2. The two teams have met three times in the playoffs, with the Chiefs holding a 2–1 record.
Quick Facts
- League affiliation
- American Football League (AFL); National Football League (NFL)
- Division
- AFC West
- Rivalry status
- Active and Historic
- Key era origin
- 1960s AFL Founding Years
Lore & Background
The teams first met in 1960 when the Chiefs were known as the Dallas Texans. The rivalry became more apparent after the Kansas City Athletics baseball team moved to Oakland in 1968. In 1969, the underdog Chiefs won the AFL Championship Game 17–7 and then Super Bowl IV. In the first meeting of the 1970 season, the game ended in a 17–17 tie after a controversial brawl and a late George Blanda field goal.
The tie proved costly, as Oakland clinched the AFC West in Week 13. After a 1970 game, Raiders coach John Madden said, 'We couldn't beat the Chiefs, but we damn near killed their horse.' The Chiefs defeated the Raiders 42–10 in the 1975 season, prompting the live horse mascot Warpaint to circle the field after each touchdown. In the 1999 season finale, the Raiders knocked the Chiefs out of the playoffs with an overtime win, their first at Arrowhead since 1988.
On October 21, 2007, the Chiefs defeated the Raiders for a record ninth straight victory. In 2020, the Raiders upset the undefeated Chiefs 40–32 at Arrowhead, snapping a 5-game losing streak. Later that season, the Chiefs won 35–31 in Las Vegas on a last-minute touchdown.
Frequently Asked Questions
What started the Chiefs-Raiders rivalry?
The feud began when both teams joined as charter members of the American Football League in the 1960s. Their competition intensified after merging into the NFL, where they remained divisional rivals within the AFC West for decades.
Why is this rivalry considered so intense?
It represents a clash of identities between Kansas City's modern dynasty status and Las Vegas' rebellious outlaw culture. Fans view every matchup as a battle for regional dominance within the division.
Is the rivalry still active today?
Yes, the teams continue to play each other annually as members of the AFC West division. Despite franchise relocations and eras changing, the historical animosity remains a staple of their schedules.
How do the team cultures differ?
The Chiefs are often associated with order and sustained excellence, while the Raiders embody a 'Just Win' mentality rooted in rebellion. This contrast fuels the emotional investment from both fanbases during games.
How long has this divisional feud lasted?
Six decades of continuous play within the same division have maintained the intensity of the conflict. This longevity makes it one of the most historic matchups in professional football.
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