As the Kansas City Chiefs gear up for their highly-anticipated Divisional Round matchup against the Buffalo Bills, several players have emerged as the ones to keep an eye on in this crucial playoff clash.

Leading the list is rookie wide receiver Rashee Rice, who has quickly established himself as a rising star. With quarterback Patrick Mahomes' trust and an expanding route tree, Rice has the potential to shine on the big stage and further solidify his name as a household favorite. Coming off a standout performance in a playoff game, expectations are high for Rice to deliver greatness against the Bills.

Another player to watch is EDGE rusher George Karlaftis. In his second season, Karlaftis has elevated his game and become a force to be reckoned with against both the pass and run defenses. With the task of pressuring Buffalo quarterback Josh Allen and containing his scrambling ability, Karlaftis will play a pivotal role in defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo's game plan.

On the defensive side of the ball, cornerback Trent McDuffie has been nothing short of sensational this season. As the newly-minted All-Pro, McDuffie has consistently delivered stellar performances, making him the standout cornerback in the playoffs. McDuffie's match-up against the Bills' wide receiver Khalil Shakir will be an enticing battle to watch, as he aims to continue frustrating Buffalo's offensive game plan.

Several other players are also trending in the right direction for the Chiefs. Safeties Chamarri Conner and Mike Edwards, running backs Isiah Pacheco and Clyde Edwards-Helaire, linebacker Nick Bolton, tackle Donovan Smith, guard Trey Smith, and placekicker Harrison Butker have all shown promise and contributed to the team's success.

In terms of the offense, the Chiefs have found success by focusing Mahomes' attention on a select number of wide receivers. Marquez Valdes-Scantling, Skyy Moore, Richie James, Mecole Hardman, Kadarius Toney, and Justyn Ross may see limited opportunities as the team relies heavily on Rice, Pacheco, and tight end Travis Kelce to lead the way in the postseason.

However, there are a few players trending in the wrong direction for the Chiefs. Cornerbacks Jaylen Watson and Joshua Williams, tight end Blake Bell, and safety Deon Bush will need to step up their performances in order to make an impact in the Divisional Round.

One sleeper pick for the Chiefs is defensive tackle Mike Pennel. While the spotlight often falls on the quarterbacks and pass rush, Pennel's role as the primary run-stuffer becomes crucial in this game. With the absence of Derrick Nnadi, Pennel will face the challenge of containing Buffalo's talented running back, James Cook. If Pennel and the defensive front can successfully limit Buffalo's ground game, it could greatly enhance the Chiefs' chances of securing victory.

The Chiefs and Bills clash promises to be an electrifying showdown, with both teams vying for a spot in the AFC Championship game against the Baltimore Ravens. As these key players take the field, fans will be eagerly anticipating their performances and the impact they will have on the outcome of this highly-anticipated playoff clash.