The 2015 Season is a Failure, is Alex Smith too?

Sep 17, 2015; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Alex Smith (11) throws a pass to wide receiver Jeremy Maclin (19) against the Denver Broncos during the first half at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

If all you want to talk about is the “eye test” then maybe. You can knock Smith for holding the ball too long, checking down too quickly, and for not appearing to have the right mindset. Fair assessments, but have been the results?

You might be tempted to say “losses” from looking at this season. And for some individuals game that might be the case. But on the whole, Smith has gone 21-17 in a Chiefs uniform. That ratio is likely to keep sliding the wrong direction this season, but if Kansas City can end at just a paltry 4-12, then Smith will still be at .500 for his K.C. career.

And that career is one that has been brighter than his time in San Francisco statistically. While in the city by the bay, Smith’s highest total passing yards in a season was in 2011 with 3,144. He has eclipsed that in each of the last two season with the Chiefs (3,313 and 3,265, respectively), even though he played all 16 games in 2011, and has only played 15 the past two seasons. And this season looks to be by far his best ever, as he is on pace to pass for over 4,000 yards for the first time in his career.

There is a similar story with his touchdown totals as well.  The 18 passing touchdowns Smith through last year are tied for the second highest in his career. The highest came in his first season wearing red and gold with 23.

Smith leaves something to be desired. He is not the savior of the Chiefs. But I never thought he was supposed to be anyway. And with numbers that are the best of his career, how much more can we really expect out of him?

Whether because of fan relations, lack of special performance in the clutch, or simply age (he is currently 31) Smith is coming closer to the end of his time as a Chief. That time may not be remembered fondly, but did he really fail?

You decide.