For Chiefs, new and returning players lead to win

Aug 21, 2015; Kansas City, MO, USA; Seattle Seahawks running back Robert Turbin (32) is tackled by Kansas City Chiefs inside linebacker Derrick Johnson (56) during the first half at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

However, the particular group of players that I focused on during this match, and impressed me throughout, were the new and returning players on the roster. The whole offensive line were either new to the Chiefs this offseason or weren’t involved last year, and up against Watt and a strong Houston defensive front would be an interesting match up.

Derrick Johnson and Mike DeVito both returned from season-ending Achilles injuries, and I was excited to see how they would look on their return, and the effect on the run defense as a whole, alongside the miraculous return of Eric Berry from Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. The drafting of rookie Marcus Peters and putting pen to paper with free-agent Jeremy Maclin were the biggest roster additions of the offseason, and it was fascinating to see them pull on the Kansas City jersey.

Perhaps the biggest worry of the Chiefs’ roster entering this season was the offensive line. After the dismal performance of the 2014 line, many in Chiefs Kingdom, myself included, were worried that once again the success of the team would falter due to the deficiencies of the offensive line. However, the newly formed group handled themselves well against Watt and the Texans.

Part of this is down to Andy Reid and his play calling, as Lyle noted previously. In typical Reid fashion, a lot of quick release, three-step drop passes were called and Smith executed well, never really putting too much pressure on the offensive line. However, some credit must also go to the play of the five men in front of Smith.

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