Rest of the AFC West: Chiefs gain ground over Raiders, Broncos
Los Angeles Chargers 10, Kansas City Chiefs 24
The Los Angeles Chargers lost to the Kansas City Chiefs, bringing them to an 0-3 record on the season. Despite the loss, the Chargers continued to show some good things on the defensive side of the ball. All 17 of the Chiefs first half points came off of interceptions, giving the Chargers defense a short field to work with. The game entered half-time with a score of 17-10, close enough to remain in striking distance. After half-time, the Chargers defense remained firm. The Chiefs second half possessions were: punt, punt, failed fake punt, punt, punt, and touchdown. That is 5 failed possessions in a row.
The Chargers offense simply could not capitalize. Philip Rivers only could complete 50% of his 40 attempts for 237 yards. The ground game was a little better today, totaling 104 yards on 26 carries. However, this is a team that is supposed to have a dangerous passing attack. Rivers has shown throughout his career that he can make incredible plays. The Chargers have two explosive deep threats with Travis Benjamin, who had 105 receiving yards, and Tyrell Williams. These two receivers can stretch the field vertically, opening things up for Keenan Allen, Hunter Henry, and Antonio Gates underneath. With all of these weapons at their disposal, not scoring any second half points is extremely disappointing.
The Chargers need to turn things around quickly, but things aren’t going to get much easier. Their next 5 opponents are the Philadelphia Eagles, New York Giants, Oakland Raiders, Denver Broncos, and New England Patriots. It seemed the Chiefs crowd was louder than the Chargers crowd on Sunday. While listening to the radio broadcast, I could hear the “Tyreek” chants every time the Chargers had to punt the ball. This is only going to get worse if the team keeps losing. It will be interesting if the Chargers can turn things around. Their defense should keep them competitive in most of these games, led by a ferocious pass rush. It will be up to the offense to not let the defense down.
Quick Notes
Star cornerback Jason Verrett did not play against the Chiefs and will miss the rest of the season. Runningback Melvin Gordon saw limited action on Sunday. He has a minor bone bruise, but isn’t expected to miss any more time.