KC Chiefs defense has turned it around on all levels

The defensive backs have been lockdown

Though few will admit it, it’s time that everyone starts to look at the Chiefs’ starting cornerbacks for who they really are: the best corner trio in the NFL. The group of Rashad Fenton, Charvarius Ward, and L’Jarius Sneed have been lockdown players in coverage. Though he should return later in the season after sustaining an injury in Week 11 against the Cowboys, Fenton has had a breakout year and up to that point, according to PFF, he was graded as the league’s second-best corner with only Jalen Ramsey receiving a higher grade.

Ward has enjoyed himself an equally productive year, as he currently leads the NFL with the lowest completion percentage allowed at 40 percent. Sneed on the other hand just continues to do Sneed things. He is not only a great coverage player but his athleticism and sure tackling allow him to play near the line of scrimmage, whether rushing the passer or stopping the run.

Of course, all of this would be for nothing if receivers were able to burn the safeties over the top. Luckily for the Chiefs, Tyrann Mathieu continues to be himself. His drive and dynamic abilities continue to showcase him as an anchor and a leader on the defense. Whether protecting the top, playing man coverage, or lining up near the box, he continues to do it all.

Fellow safety Juan Thornhill has also been more than serviceable since earning the starting role over Daniel Sorensen, who struggled severely through the first several weeks. Heck, even Sorensen is making plays! Despite his rough start and relegation to becoming a situational player, he came away with a huge pick-six against the Broncos on Sunday.  Ultimately, the skill position players have played with increasing chemistry and have developed a knack for takeaways, picking off opposing quarterbacks seven times over the last five games.

The defense is no longer the little brother

The Chiefs’ defense has been suffocating the opposition since their last loss in Week 8. Over that stretch, they have allowed only 11.2 points per game and a red zone touchdown percentage of 36.4. Both of these statistics are second in the NFL over the last six weeks. They have also bolstered an impressive 25.8 third-down percentage which leads the league. Some may be quick to point out that these have come against lower-tier opponents but four out of five of these teams hold a record of 0.500 or better.

Spagnuolo has once again proven he understands the assignment on hand, and has rallied the troops as the season enters its final quarter. The NFL should be on notice. Patrick Mahomes now has a top defense, something Tom Brady has historically benefitted from.