Aug 21, 2015; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid walks to the field before the game against the Seattle Seahawks at Arrowhead Stadium. Kansas City won 14-13. Mandatory Credit: John Rieger-USA TODAY Sports
1. Start fast and keep the foot on the gas:
The Chiefs have generally started slow against the Broncos being out scored 38-16 in first quarter in their last six match ups. This has allowed Denver to dictate the pace of the game and made it increasingly difficult for what’s been a pedestrian offense push for any kind of comeback win. Kansas City needs reverse course here and win the first quarter making Denver have to respond.
The Chiefs proved to us last week against Houston that they are more than capable of getting off to a fast start even when facing a challenging defense. Even more impressive is Alex Smith threw for 243 yards and three touchdowns in the first half.
Secondly, unlike last week the Chiefs have to play well on offense with the lead. Kansas City’s play calling became very passive in the second half against Houston which almost allowed them to rally and a better offense may have. Andy Reid can’t get conservative until late in the fourth quarter if they have a decent lead. The Chiefs have to keep the pressure on on the Broncos for four quarters without letting up.
2. Control the line of scrimmage:
The Chiefs need to embrace the role of the bully at the line of scrimmage and success will follow. Offensively it’s a must for Kansas City to have success running the ball, this will keep the defense honest and open up the passing game for Smith.
Last week the Chiefs had success against a good defense without being able to run the ball very well with only averaging three yards per carry. According to Pro Football Focus the Chiefs were the sixth highest graded pass blocking unit in the league in week one with a +3.1 grade. As for the run blocking, not as good as they were graded at a -3.0 which was ranked 19th in the league.
This game plan will have to be altered against Denver considering they have much better cornerbacks than Houston which means running the ball will be crucial.
Manning was sacked four times last week, a young shaky offensive line that was ranked 18th in pass blocking by PFF comes into Arrowhead under the big lights. Something tells me Kansas City’s front seven is going have an enormous night.
Next: Third and final point