What To Watch: Chiefs vs. Packers Edition
By Ben Nielsen
Aug 17, 2014; Charlotte, NC, USA; Kansas City Chiefs cornerback DeMarcus Van Dyke (40) prays at the goal post during warm ups before the game against the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sam Sharpe-USA TODAY Sports
DEMARCUS VAN DYKE
DeMarcus Van Dyke is back on the field and has shown the speed element he brings to the table. Speed is a key part of what Bob Sutton’s defense requires given the amount of times he is putting defensive backs on an island with receivers. The more speed you bring to the table then the better chance you’ll have at preventing some of the big plays the Chiefs have been hit with.
Think about the way Seattle played defense against the Broncos in the Super Bowl. They were not afraid about completions but with tackling. If Manning was able to avoid the pass rush and get the completion, Seattle almost always had a guy there immediately to make the tackle. The lack of YAC the Broncos were able to accumulate reduced the effectiveness of their passing game.
This is where a guy like Van Dyke comes in. He has the speed to get from point A to point B in a hurry. The question is whether or not he react to the play quickly and make the tackle. If he can then he becomes the sort of reserve guy the Chiefs need to keep their starters fresh.