Alex Smith: A Look at Chiefs QB’s Stats When Jamaal Charles Is Injured

In Kansas City, there are two kinds of people: those who support Alex Smith and those who think he’s the Antichrist. We can debate pros and cons about the Chiefs quarterback all day, but the numbers tend to always side with the former group.

Spoiler: This case isn’t an exception.

Week 3 marked the second time that, within the past two years, Charles received three or fewer carries in a game—both instances stemmed from injury. Obviously, the first occurrence dates back to last year’s “What? What did I do to you, God?” playoff loss.

The Colts’ 2013 defense didn’t keeping anyone up at night. Outside of Robert Mathis, the pass rush was as fierce as kittens charging a ball of yarn. The secondary was as middling as their Ewok’s (Andrew Luck) first-half performance.

The Dolphins 2014 defense? Prior to Week 3, it topped Pro Football Focus’ rankings in run defense and pass rush; No. 3 in coverage. And unlike last year, the Chiefs offensive line isn’t capable of picking up a stunt by Mr. Burns and Smithers.

For whatever reason, when his best asset hobbles off the field, Smith’s efficiency approaches cyborg levels (scroll horizontally):

[table id=34 /]

Smith also added 74 rushing yards on 10 attempts.

I’ll spare you the time, critics. He can’t fling it 70 yards! He’s not Peyton Manning! He has missed open receivers before! Yadda yadda…game manager!

We know, Angry Bro at the Bar No. 5. We know.

Statistics provided by Pro-Football-Reference.com.