Chiefs vs Chargers: Grading KC’s performance
By Andrew Jones
Offense: B-
To start the game with the ball the drive looked so promising from Kansas City. Then they crossed the 40 of San Diego and things went downhill. I remember thinking to myself that this must be the same old Andy Reid Chiefs where third down conversions would be rare. So rare that we would hardly see any the rest of the day. The Chiefs would finish the game 5-of-14 for a ridiculous 35 percent conversion rate. Most of those sad five came in the second half along with two fourth-down conversions.
It seemed that playing from behind actually kick started the play-calling to be more aggressive. Especially going for it on 4th down and pushing the ball down the field. Alex Smith ended his day going 34-of-48 for 363 yards and two touchdowns. His pinpoint accuracy to Jeremy Maclin on this touchdown shows what kind of fourth quarter he had.
Smith also added a rushing touchdown in overtime to win the game. People can question Smith’s ability to push the ball downfield but they cannot question his desire to win. Smith continues to give his all for the team and because of it the team is finding more success.
The top receiver and player of the game goes to Spencer Ware who logged 129 receiving yards along with 70 rushing. Ware broke at least one tackle on nearly every play he got the ball. The Chargers appear to be a favorite opponent of his. Last year Ware rushed for 96 yards at San Diego and 52 yards at home.
The offensive line performed well against the pass rush when there was not a stunt or twist in place. Parker Ehinger was the lowest graded offensive lineman on the day as he allowed too many pressures up the middle. (according to PFF) Both Eric Fisher and Mitchell Schwartz did a great job setting the edge. Only when Smith was forced out did either of their assignments get any pressure.
Next: Onto the defense...