Will the real Alex Smith please stand up?
By Ryan Tracy
Nov 29, 2015; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Alex Smith (11) throws the ball against the Buffalo Bills in the first half at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John Rieger-USA TODAY Sports
Things came together for Alex Smith against the Buffalo Bills. He had his most dynamic passing day with the Kansas City Chiefs, running the offense efficiently and utilizing the tools he has available. He added the down-field dimension that his game has lacked and was successful.
That is a hot topic as there has been no player of the Andy Reid and John Dorsey regime that has divided the fan base more than Smith. Like him or hate him, he showed a glimpse of this offenses potential against the Bills, but I’ll get to that…
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Smith’s caution, particularly in protecting the football, is a valuable quality in a starting quarterback. You don’t want your leader digging you into a hole week after week. At the same time, over-cautious and bordering on fearful play limits the growth of both the offense and the young players that comprise it.
To this point in his Kansas City career, Smith has been most commonly in this cautious “Alex A” role. From time to time, Smith has let loose the other version. The “Alex X” role has used his athleticism to scramble and attack the defense with his legs. He has occasional taken chances passing downfield to his athletic playmakers. He has shown up as a confident, comfortable leader. That version of Alex Smith is an X-factor.
Next: Smith changing his stripes?