Chiefs on the rise toward regular season
By Ryan Tracy
Aug 21, 2015; Kansas City, MO, USA; Seattle Seahawks running back Christine Michael (33) is tackled by Kansas City Chiefs defensive end Allen Bailey (97) in the first half at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John Rieger-USA TODAY Sports
The Chiefs defense is still giving up big plays, but they are not home run type plays. Three plays of twenty or more yards were allowed on Friday night. None of those plays came on the ground. The first team defense, as it stands, is improving despite multiple injuries keeping starters out of play.
Ramik Wilson led the team (tied with Jamell Fleming) in tackles for the second consecutive week. Wilson was in and out of the lineup Friday, getting spelled early by veteran Frank Zombo. However, Wilson was around the ball and getting into the run defense more readily than in week one. Despite some progress, he still has to grow into engaging and shedding the offensive linemen better. He was blocked out of the play too often. Rookie DJ Alexander got his first game snaps and was around the ball in the second half.
Fleming and rookie Marcus Peters showed some spark. Peters was particularly resilient, making an impressive play directly after giving up a catch in front of him. Peters, Fleming and Philip Gaines all made plays on Friday. That is a good sign for week one when its likely they will be the starting trio at cornerback.
Jaye Howard, Mike Catapano and Nick Williams showed the line has the depth to improve the rushing defense and get to the passer. The defensive line rotation will be particularly crucial while Dontari Poe remains sidelined. Going into preseason game three, it appears to be solid.
Next: Is this Offense on the Rise?