2014 Chiefs: Reasons For Hope
The word “hope” might be a ill-fitting noun to use for an 0-2 football team. Losing two consecutive conference games is clearly not the best way to launch a campaign for a wildcard berth in the AFC playoff picture. Through two games, coaching gaffes and a rash of injuries bring the 2011 season to mind. Despite an impressive effort in Denver, there are good reasons to think the Kansas City Chiefs are fated for a similar season. Call me crazy, but Sunday’s game left me mildly optimistic.
I’m not here to sell you on Kansas City’s playoff chances. The odds aren’t in the Chiefs’ favor. Since 1990, only 12% of teams that started the year 0-2 went on to qualify for the postseason. A five-game margin for error with forthcoming matchups with the Patriots, Seahawks, Broncos, 49ers, Chargers, Bills, and Cardinals is hardly encouraging. It may come as no surprise to you, but I’m just crazy enough to believe the Chiefs can play competitive football the rest of the way.
At the risk of losing what little credibility I have left, here are four reasons for Chiefs Kingdom to believe this football team can salvage its season:
1. Travis Kelce
The second-year man out of Cincinnati is the first tight end since Tony Gonzalez was traded away that the Chiefs can reasonably call an offensive weapon. Heading into Week 3, Kelce has 7 catches, 138 receiving yards, and 4 receptions of at least 20 yards. He’s currently averaging an eye-popping 18.6 yards per catch. His star is rising and with more offensive snaps and a clean bill of health, he can be counted on to produce.
His rare blend of size and speed is invaluable in Andy Reid’s offense. His stature makes it difficult for defensivebacks to contend with in coverage. His speed makes him a mismatch for most linebackers in the league. Kelce’s the kind of target that can make the first defender miss and if you don’t have the right angle on him, he’ll flat run by you. He’s one of a select few Chiefs players who’ll consistently create separation and we all know Smith prefers throwing into wider windows. He’s earning more and more playing time with each passing week.
2. Alex Smith
Pride is an important thing for any football player to have and I believe that Alex Smith has it in spades. Sunday’s performance at Sports Authority Field proved that the Chiefs’ starting quarterback won’t let this football team fail on his watch (if he can help it). He gave a gutsy performance in Denver in a game that could easily have gotten away from Kansas City. He converted a number of crucial third downs both with his arm and nimble legs.
Leadership is always a key factor in stabilizing a sinking ship. Kansas City’s offense did miss a few red zone opportunities, but they were missing perhaps their most versatile weapon in that area of the field. A healthy Jamaal Charles gives Reid more offensive options in the red zone. Alex Smith’s presence will help keep Reid’s offense poised even when it’s backed into a corner this season.
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