Sep 19, 2013; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Eagles running back LeSean McCoy (34) is pursued by Kansas City Chiefs linebackers Justin Houston (50) and Akeem Jordan (55) and defensive lineman Mike DeVito (70)at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
The Kansas City Chiefs came into Lincoln Financial Field as the three point underdog. The Philadelphia crowd cheered when Andy Reid entered the field wearing foreign red, but that was the last time during the game any good will was sent his way.
From the jump, Kansas City’s defense dominated the game. Eric Berry was able to fulfill a lifelong dream and return a Michael Vick interception for a touchdown. The defense didn’t look back.
While the Chiefs offense continued to struggle (especially Alex Smith whose nearly 273 passing yards are quite deceptive) Charles ran the ball well when he was given the opportunity. All in all, Charles carried the ball 20 times for 92 yards and caught seven passes out of the backfield for another 80 yards of offensive production. Another standout offensive player tonight was Chiefs wide receiver, Donnie Avery who had an astonishing 141 yards of receiving. Avery was really the “go to guy,” especially on third down and long when Avery converted three third downs that were longer than 15 yards to go.
However, as is their style thus far this season, the Chiefs offense scored when they needed to, driving down the field and scoring on a Charles touchdown on the ground. Alex Smith, who struggled throughout the game, was nearly perfect on the drive and several members stepped up on the drive, including new fan favorite, tight end Sean McGrath.
But, to take anything away from this Chiefs defense, would be an injustice. They are the talk of the league right now, from watercoolers to ESPN. Tonight, perhaps, they proved that they are a legitimate force in the NFL.
On the night, the defense had six sacks, including a huge four and a half sack performance from linebacker Justin Houston. Houston also had a forced fumble and recovered the ball on the Eagles’ final offensive play of the game. If Houston doesn’t receive the AFC Defensive Player of the Week again this week (he also won in week one) it will be a crime.
Also having a huge game tonight was fourth year safety Eric Berry. As I said earlier, he returned a pick for a touchdown early (marking Michael Vick’s first interception of the season). He also played lights out in coverage. Cornerback Sean Smith also had a pick against Vick on the evening, which was all due to the pressure put on the Eagles’ signal caller.
This was a tough fought win against a good Eagles team. Having only three days off between games is rough on anyone; I don’t care who you are. The good news is, the Chiefs will now have ten days to prepare for the next NFC East opponent in as many weeks: the New York Giants.
The Chiefs move to 3 -0 which is more than any Chiefs fan could have hoped for, but they’ve done it every which way possible. While the offense has a long way to go, and fans are still screaming for Smith to throw more than nine yards at a time, no one can argue with the fact that the Chiefs are still undefeated. Granted, it’s only three games into the season, but who’s counting. Right now, they are the sole leaders in the AFC West, until the Denver Broncos play the Oakland Raiders on Monday Night Football, that is.
What did you think, Addicts? What did you see tonight? Let us know!