Chiefs: five things to give thanks for
Nov 22, 2015; San Diego, CA, USA; Kansas City Chiefs running back Spencer Ware (32) celebrates a touchdown as quarterback Alex Smith (11) looks on during the fourth quarter against the San Diego Chargers at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports
Happy Thanksgiving Addicts!
Just a few weeks ago it looked like this piece would have to be consoling in nature. At that time there was not a lot to feel thankful about in 2015 for the Chiefs, and I had already written that the season was a failure. Oops.
Somehow, after a five game losing streak that showcased just about every weakness on the team, Kansas City has managed to claw its way back into playoff contention going into Week 12. After the Bills lost on Monday night, Kansas City is now the second Wild Card team. I know, crazy, right?
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But whatever happened to this team between the Vikings game and the Steelers game has done wonders. The season is still alive, and here are five more things to be thankful for:
Next: Running the rock
The Run Game
Nov 22, 2015; San Diego, CA, USA; Kansas City Chiefs running back Spencer Ware (32) runs as San Diego Chargers free safety Eric Weddle (32) and strong safety Jimmy Wilson (27) defend during the fourth quarter at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports
The Chiefs have had a dynamic running back for years. Before Jamaal Charles there was Larry Johnson. And before Johnson was Priest Holmes. And before that trio came great names like Christian Okoye and Marcus Allen.
Over the past couple of seasons however, it has not been just the featured back that has been helping the Chiefs get the W. After Charles was injured early in Week 2 last season, he was replaced by Knile Davis. The second year man out of Arkansas came into the game and ran for 79 yards and two touchdowns. He then added another 132 yards and a touchdown in the following game versus Miami.
And then when Charles went down again this year the load was carried Charcandrick West, who had a very slow start against against Minnesota, but broke out for 110 yards and a touchdown the following week against Pittsburgh. West continued to produce in the ensuing games against Detroit and Denver.
Then came the San Diego game this last weekend and yet another new name made his mark at running back for the Chiefs. Spencer Ware, in the first game with K.C. where he had more than two carries, ran for almost 100 yards (he had 96) and two touchdowns. Oh, and he did not even get his first attempt until half way through the third quarter.
Heck, even Dontari Poe, a defensive lineman, scored a rushing touchdown for Kansas City.
Next: SCOREBOARD