2014 Chiefs: Reasons For Hope
3. Andy Reid
Few coaches in the NFL have played as many high stakes games as Andy Reid. He’s seen it all in 15 years as an NFL head coach. Though, like every other head coach, his experience doesn’t always compensate for his fallibity. He’s made a number of questionable decisions already in 2014. That said, I still believe he’s right man for the job for the foreseeable future. Reid’s adept at motivating his players. He also understands how important calm is when a team is faltering. His experience and savvy will keep this team from looking past an opponent. That’s especially important this week as the team prepares for a road trip to Miami.
It’d be easy for Kansas City to get caught looking ahead to New England, San Francisco, and Seattle. Those three teams are among the best in their respective conferences. The Dolphins are much improved, but likely still the third-best team in the AFC East. The Chiefs’ top priority is getting a win in South Florida on Sunday. Reid’s the kind of coach I trust to have his men ready to play in a “must-win” game this weekend.
4. Dorsey’s depth
By kickoff on Sunday, Kansas City will still be missing at least five regular starters (DeVito, Johnson, Mays, Allen, and Stephenson). Three season-ending injuries to starters can be devastating if you don’t have serviceable backup options to fill in the gaps. Kansas City’s fortunate to have a few courtesy of general manager John Dorsey. Vance Walker and Jaye Howard are more-than-capable replacement options for DeVito. Ryan Harris is an offensive tackle with previous starting experience for two teams in the NFL. Knile Davis’ two-touchdown day in Denver may have been the most inspiring performance of any reserve on the team.
Kansas City prides itself on its “next man up” philosophy and has the talent to make it more than an empty slogan going forward. A number of other young hopefuls may prove their value as the season wears on. The Chiefs aren’t without their share of misses (cough…cough…Mike McGlynn), but the level of talent in Kansas City has reached a level that it can survive an injury here and there. The defensive side of the football appears to have the edge in talent, but there are gifted, young backups like Eric Kush patiently waiting in the wings offensively.
What say you? Do you still have hope that the Chiefs can right the ship and contend for a playoff spot in 2014? Are there other ways that the team can get things turned around? Have injuries sacked Kansas City’s chances of a winning season? Use the comment section below to weigh in. As always, we appreciate your readership and support!
Until next time, Addicts!