Kansas City Chiefs: Everything You Need to Know for Week 5’s Matchup vs. 49ers

Key Defensive Matchups

Sep 14, 2014; Denver, CO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Justin Houston (50) during the game against the Denver Broncos at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports

James-Michael Johnson/Josh Mauga vs. 49ers Interior O-Line

San Francisco’s offensive line has recently come under fire. And rightfully so.

However, it’s not due to the front five’s run blocking. Frank Gore is averaging the same amount of yards per carry (4.3) as Jamaal Charles.

Johnson and Mauga have struggled in defending the ground game. Whether filling the wrong gap or over-pursuing, the replacements—while serviceable in other areas—often leave voids in the heart of Kansas City’s defense. As a result, opponents are averaging five yards per rush attempt.

Tamba Hali/Justin Houston vs. Joe Staley/Anthony Davis or Jonathan Martin

Jotting that Hali and Houston are keys is a weekly no-brainer, but their significance will be heightened in Week 5.

Staley has proven to be a perennial top-five tackle. For whatever reason, though, he hasn’t performed up to par this season. The three-time Pro Bowler underwent arthroscopic knee surgery this offseason, which might serve as the crux of the matter.

Regardless, Hali redefines relentless.

In terms of skill level, Davis is head and shoulders above Martin. But even if the former plays, he won’t be at full strength.

Both are better run-blockers than pass-protectors.

With four weeks in the rearview, Houston, once again, is PFF’s No. 1 3-4 outside linebacker. He has enough athleticism to effectively cover zones; enough power to combat the run and enough supernaturalism everything to be an edge-rushing hellhound.

No. 50 is a locomotive that runs on nightmare fuel.

Bob Sutton vs. Kaepernick

Obviously, Sutton doesn’t own a jersey number, but when squaring off against Kaepernick, play-calling is arguably as important as execution.

There’s a misconception that San Francisco’s passer hits the panic button if his primary read is a no-go. At times, that’s been true. But more often than not, assuming he has time, he’ll cycle through his progression.

That being said, the dual-threat tends to rely on his legs when defenses disguise their intentions (e.g. a pre-snap Cover 2 look that changes to Cover 1 “Robber” after the snap).

Furthermore, designating a quarterback “spy,” particularly on third down, is pivotal in thwarting No. 7’s efforts.