Around the AFC West: Kansas City Chiefs regain stranglehold on division

Kansas City Chiefs

The Kansas City Chiefs traveled to Denver on a short week to take on the Broncos. Having dropped their previous two games, there were real questions about the defense, offensive line, special teams, Mahomes’ ankle, etc. The Broncos, on the other hand, were seeing a two game winning streak, and this was on a short week at Mile High. However, the Chiefs marched in and delivered a butt-kicking to the Broncos.

Two things stood out in this decisive win by the Chiefs. First, the defense came to play. Maybe they were tired of hearing the constant complaining about their lack of tackling and lack of discipline, but whatever it was, they stepped up. Recording nine sacks (8 on Joe Flacco and one on a fake punt) while also stopping the run and scoring on a recovered fumble, the defense was looking phenomenal. Is this a flash in the pan or signs that the new scheme is starting to click? Frank Clark was dominant, Khalen Saunders and Derrick Nnadi combined to be tough against the run, Reggie Ragland hit defenders like he had a chip on his shoulder.

The other piece that stood out was the injury to Mahomes. Early in the second quarter on a sneak, the Chiefs quarterback dislocated his kneecap. The fear was that he might be done for the season, but after an MRI and what looks like multiple opinions, it is believed that Mahomes could come back as soon as three weeks. Head athletic trainer Rick Burkholder issued a statement at a press conference on Monday and things are definitely looking up. We were also notified that Kendall Fuller had surgery on his thumb and he is undergoing rehab. His status for next week’s game is unclear.

Next week, the Chiefs host Aaron Rodgers and the Green Bay Packers on Sunday Night Football. This was supposed to be the duel: Rodgers vs. Mahomes! I bought tickets and everything. Now, however, it is Rodgers vs. Moore—not quite as exciting. Oh, well. The Packers just opened up a can of offensive firepower on the Raiders and their defense is playing well. They may be one of the most complete teams in the NFL right now and that is without Davante Adams.

Andy Reid will need to scheme, but if anyone can do it, Andy can. We still have incredible offensive weapons, but I don’t see the Chiefs ultimately pulling this one out. Chiefs will likely drop this game to a team that (at least for now) has a better quarterback under center.

Opening line odds for the Chiefs in Week 8: +5.5.

Game time is 7:20 p.m. (And if you haven’t heard, the Chiefs are doing the Light Up Arrowhead again, so if you are attending the game, download the Chiefs app and follow the instructions! See you there!)