KC Chiefs vs. Packers: Key takeaways from a big victory for Kansas City
By Matt Conner
Melvin Ingram arrives
It took exactly one drive to see Melvin Ingram make his debut with the Chiefs. On the opening series of the game, it was his pressure of Jordan Love that forced a missed third-down passing attempt, ending the drive for the Packers who decided to punt on fourth down. From there, it was clear the Chiefs had needed that sort of help outside to take additional pressure off of others and to provide disruption from the edge.
The Chiefs began their week by giving up a future sixth-round pick in exchange for Ingram in a pre-deadline deal with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Ingram didn’t have much room to contribute in Pittsburgh, but the Chiefs are clearly gonna give him space to make an impact. His presence also helps vets like Frank Clark and Chris Jones make some noise as well, as offensive lines have to focus on everyone upfront.
On the whole, Ingram had a single tackle to his credit on the afternoon, but it was clear to see why the Chiefs were chasing Ingram to some degree all offseason long given his help getting disruption.
Josh Gordon still missing
For all the buzz when he first signed with the Chiefs, it’s hard to believe that the team still hasn’t found a way to feature Josh Gordon in the mix while maintaining a clear need for some other wide receiver to be able to step up and create separation.
Right now, defenses are keying in on Tyreek Hill by using multiple defenders while simultaneously being as physical as they can with Travis Kelce coming off the line. The end result is that the team’s offensive timing is off and Patrick Mahomes looks unsettled even when he’s been given enough time. The offensive line, believe it or not, is not the problem as the starting unit is coming together very well. Rookies are playing like vets, and the vets are playing as hoped.
If there was ever a time for Gordon or someone to step up and earn Mahomes’ trust in one-on-one situations this is it, but it’s not happening. That’s not just on Gordon, by the way, who earned a single target. It’s on Mecole Hardman who had another dropped pass today along with others on the roster. We just thought by now that Gordon would be a bit more enmeshed with this offense.