Chiefs on the rise toward regular season
By Ryan Tracy
Aug 21, 2015; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Alex Smith (11) throws a touchdown pass against the Seattle Seahawks in the first half at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John Rieger-USA TODAY Sports
Alex Smith showed off his connection with his new primary receiver Jeremy Maclin on Friday night against Seattle. Their camaraderie was evident in a number of pass plays, including the first wide receiver touchdown of the preseason for the offense’s first team. Despite getting that weight off of his, and Reid’s, shoulders, the offense isn’t clicking on all cylinders yet.
Smith had a significant lapse that led to an interception. He telegraphed his pass, allowing the Seattle linebacker to read his eyes and take the pass away, turning it into six points. In reality, it is one bad play on a night when Smith played well. But, it shows that Smith still needs to sharpen his game in preparation for two stout defenses to start the regular season.
The rest of the offense is shaping up. The injuries along the offensive line have begun to solidify the players that can and cannot be relied on in the regular season. Donald Stephenson showed well, especially when in space. He has shown himself to be the swing tackle and could be used early in the season to step in at tackle on either side. Paul Fanaika struggled and may have lost his spot on the roster as a result.
So long as Allen and Eric Fisher can return from injury, the lone question mark remains at right guard. Fulton was demoted after a poor showing against the Cardinals. Laurent Duverney-Tardif was promoted to the first team and while his athleticism was evident he was overcome by power moves by Seattle’s defensive linemen. Both young guards have promise, but neither has shown themselves to be ready to step into the starting role. The eventual return of Jeff Allen from injury gives the staff options for the time being, though it may lead them to look elsewhere.
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