Chiefs Lose To Falcons: 5 Positives From The Game

John Rieger-US PRESSWIRE

The Kansas City Chiefs came unraveled in the second half of Sunday’s game against the Atlanta Falcons, losing 40-24.

But it wasn’t all bad. Really.

Here are five positives from Sunday’s game:

1. Jamaal Charles is back

Any lingering worries about Jamaal Charles’ knee can be put to rest. The RB showed the same burst and elusiveness we’ve grown to love. Charles led the team in rushing, carrying the ball 16 times for 87 yards. He had a nice 46-yard run.

2. Dexter McCluster

Dex continued to be a big factor for the KC offense. He could have a career year in 2012.

3. Poe

Rookie Dontari Poe got the start and seemed to hold his own. There were no gaudy stats but he recorded two tackles, one for a loss.

4. The run defense was solid

Despite getting torched through the air, the KC run defense was impressive. the Falcons ran 23 times for 84 yards and a 3.4 yards per-carry average. That includes three QB scrambles by Ryan for 25 yards. The Falcons didn’t need to run much but when they did, the Chiefs stopped them.

5. Justin Houston

Despite Matt Ryan getting the ball out quick, OLB Justin Houston still managed to record a sack. When Tamba Hali comes back next week, life will be much easier for Houston.

There were plenty of positives in this game, particularly on offense. The second half was poor for the KC O but with the way the defense was playing, the wheels were going to come off eventually. KC showed they can move the ball against quality competition. If the team can get Hali and Flowers back and shore up their pass defense, they’ll be able to outscores some teams this year.

The score looks bad but the Chiefs are close than you think.

Here is one more good thing to come out of the game:

Denny Medley-US PRESSWIRE