Kyle Long among three biggest variables for KC Chiefs vs. Broncos

Can the Chiefs get after Bridgewater?

Here’s the real test for the Broncos going forward in their next few games as Teddy Bridgewater deals with a leg injury.

The Broncos front line is already a bit beat up with both tackles Garrett Bollles and Bobby Massie dealing with recent ankle injuries at present. Graham Glasgow is also on IR. They’re also down Melvin Gordon in the running game, which means they’re thinner in the backfield for a team likely wanting to emphasize the run game to keep the Chiefs pass rushers at bay. That’s going to present the biggest challenge for the Broncos.

With this variable in play, it’s quite possible for the Chiefs pass rushers to have a real field day against a division rival coming off of a full week away. Chris Jones had 3.5 sacks in his last game by himself. Jarran Reed is looking better than ever this season, and the same can be said of Frank Clark, who might be playing his best stretch of football in his three seasons in K.C.

There are others worth mentioning here, like Melvin Ingram and Derrick Nnadi, but it’s also worth noting that Steve Spagnuolo is going to bring plenty of pressure on passing downs. If the Chiefs can seal gaps in the run game and force some 2nd-and-long or 3rd-and-long situations, the Chiefs might make this a very, very long afternoon for the Broncos offense. On the flip side, if Bridgewater can perform well in the pocket provided, the Broncos have a chance.