Chiefs vs. Broncos: Five things to watch

Sep 13, 2015; Houston, TX, USA; Kansas City Chiefs running back Jamaal Charles (25) runs with the ball during the fourth quarter against the Houston Texans at NRG Stadium. The Chiefs defeated the Texans 27-20. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

2. Can Jamaal Charles get Going?

Was I the only one watching the first half of Sunday’s game going “What is happening with Jamaal Charles?”

I doubt it. Though even if you also noticed a very uncharacteristic performance for the star running back, you probably were too excited by the rest of the offense to care that much.

Still, even if the running game was not essential on Sunday, it will be needed throughout this season. Charles cannot continue to struggle on the ground (he ended the first half with only 10 rushing yards) throughout this season. He did finish with decent stats overall (57 yards rushing, and 46 yards and a touchdown through the air), but for K.C. to find continued success he will likely need to get it going on the ground.

Pro Football Reference ranked Denver first in the league in passing defense after Week 1. So Charles must rev it up sooner rather than later.

3. The Chiefs Wide Receivers

If you are a Chiefs fan, then you were almost certainly ecstatic with Kansas City’s passing game on Sunday. But there was one notable absence. And you can probably guess what it was.

As noted Monday morning in the New York Times, the Chiefs have still not thrown a touchdown to a wide receiver (not counting what happened in the preseason). That the Chiefs actually made a headline in a large national publication is awesome. That said publication is still talking about the “no touchdowns to a wide receiver” streak is a bit annoying.

They could have noted how strong of a performance Travis Kelce had in the game. They could have commended Alex Smith for putting up great stats (completing 22-of-33 pass attempts for 243 yards, three touchdowns, and no interceptions). But no, we still have to hear “that” statistic.

However, despite my annoyance as a fan, I get why it makes news.

And I get the only way to stop making it news is for a Chiefs receiver to catch a touchdown. I cannot believe the drought will last much longer. Could it end against the Broncos? Yes, please.

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