Jared Goff recognizes what has made the Kansas City Chiefs dominant — and he’s determined to bring that same formula to the Detroit Lions.

The Lions and Chiefs haven’t met often through the years, but the few matchups they’ve shared have marked turning points for both franchises.

In 2019, Kansas City came out on top in a 34-30 thriller that hinted at the rise of Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce, and the dynasty that would follow. Detroit was just a spectator then, but that game foreshadowed how far the league’s balance of power was shifting.

By 2023, the Lions were intent on showing they belonged among the elite after finishing the prior season strong. Their Week 1 clash in Kansas City was the perfect proving ground, and they rose to the occasion with a stunning 21-20 win over the defending Super Bowl champions.

Regardless of the circumstances surrounding each team today, the Chiefs have clearly set the standard across the NFL for the past five years. As Detroit’s field general, Goff fully understands the challenge of reaching that same height.

So what does Goff believe drives Kansas City’s dominance? He credits their remarkable ability to continually reset, retool, and return every year with the same hunger and drive — no matter how much they’ve already accomplished.

“Number one is consistency over time. I don’t even know how many straight AFC title games they’ve reached. It’s incredible, and it’s hard to keep reloading after such long seasons. What stands out most is their ability for almost a decade now to rebuild each offseason and still come back strong. Always a tough opponent, a tough defense for me to go against, and of course, an explosive offense.”

Maintaining balance between offense and defense has been key, and this year’s 4-1 Lions are showing those same traits. Even though Kansas City has stumbled early at 2-3, Goff knows that won’t matter once the two teams meet on Sunday.

Goff says Lions must mirror Chiefs’ consistency to become yearly contenders

To win consistently in the NFL, a franchise must uphold the same high standard day after day — from practices to game days. Every player must stay aligned and accountable to sustain long-term success.

Goff understands how difficult that is to maintain, which is why only the best teams manage to stay great from season to season. That trait, he says, is what separates Kansas City and what Detroit must emulate to climb to the top.

“Consistency. It’s tough — really tough. You have to show up daily, work to get better, push your teammates, hold yourself accountable, and prove it every single day in practice.”

The Lions have already made strides, capturing back-to-back NFC North titles and consecutive playoff berths. Still, Goff knows there’s another level ahead — one marked by deep postseason runs and championships — a level the Chiefs have already mastered.