Broncos vs. Chiefs: 3 key matchups to watch
By David Thomas
Mitchell Schwartz vs. Von Miller
Little known fact, Schwartz tied for the most sacks given up in 2016 with 9. But to Schwartz’s credit, the 5 players he tied with allowed an average of 15.8 more total pressures. In 2017 Schwartz is on pace to allow just 7 sacks this season. But facing Miller this week may end up with Schwartz in danger of surpassing his previous season total.
In Schwartz’s last two matchups against Miller he allowed 2 sacks, 0 hits, and 5 hurries for 7 total pressures in 2 games. Not too bad against arguably the best pass rusher in the NFL, but Mitchell has hardly looked improved from last season.
In 2017 Miller has looked just as dominant if not more so than last season. Miller is currently averaging 1 sack and 6 total pressures a game. However, Miller has not been facing the best right tackles so far this season. The Chargers, Giants, Raiders, and Cowboys all have a weak point at the right tackle position. This will be Miller’s toughest matchup of the season.
With all that in mind, I still think this matchup will go in Miller’s favor. Alex Smith continues to take way too many sacks, and I don’t think that will change this week. Schwartz gives up 1 sack and 3 pressures while Miller gets 2.5 sacks overall.