Every season, the Kansas City Chiefs enter with a target on their back—and 2025 is no different. As defending Super Bowl champions with sights set on a potential fourth title in six years, every game on the schedule carries weight. But when it comes to marquee matchups, one game stands out above the rest: Chiefs vs. San Francisco 49ers.

A rematch of two Super Bowl battles in the last five seasons, the Chiefs-49ers showdown is more than just another regular season game—it’s a clash of NFL titans. The storyline writes itself: Patrick Mahomes vs. Brock Purdy, Andy Reid vs. Kyle Shanahan, and a pair of rosters stacked with elite talent on both sides of the ball.
This game isn’t just big because of the names involved. It’s also a potential Super Bowl LIX preview, a litmus test for where both teams stand midway through the season. The 49ers are hungry for revenge after falling short in overtime against Kansas City in Super Bowl LVIII, and they’ll bring that fire into this high-stakes matchup. The Chiefs, meanwhile, are eager to prove they still own the NFL throne and can beat the league’s toughest defenses—even without Tyreek Hill and with a reshuffled offensive line.
Beyond the on-field implications, the game will have massive media and fan interest. It’s already slated for a primetime slot, with national coverage and a playoff-like atmosphere expected. Every Mahomes throw, every Chris Jones sack, every Travis Kelce route will be under the microscope.
However, this isn’t the only big game on Kansas City’s schedule. Other matchups with serious heat include:
Chiefs vs. Bengals – The rivalry between Mahomes and Joe Burrow remains one of the NFL’s most exciting storylines.
Chiefs at Bills – Any time Mahomes faces Josh Allen, sparks fly.
Chiefs vs. Chargers (Week 18) – Could have huge AFC West implications if the division race is tight.
Still, none match the significance, intensity, and star power of the battle against the 49ers.
For the Chiefs, this game is about legacy. It’s another opportunity for Mahomes to add to his growing legend, for Andy Reid to outcoach another elite staff, and for Kansas City to send a message to the rest of the league: We’re not done yet.
So circle the date, mark your calendar, and get ready for fireworks. When the Chiefs and 49ers meet again, it won’t just be a game—it will be the game of the regular season.