Chargers vs. Chiefs might be season’s most consequential game

The Matchup

The Chargers made it no secret that they were chasing the Chiefs this year. This offseason, the Chargers made some transactions that indicated that they were trying to take a home run swing. After re-signing Mike Williams to a lucrative extension, the Chargers made some bold moves to revamp the defense in the hopes of slowing Mahomes down.

First and foremost, Los Angeles pursued and successfully acquired the top defensive free agent on the market: JC Jackson. While his status for this week’s matchup remains up in the air, the goal was clear: Make Mahomes go to his second, third, or fourth options. Then, the Chargers added Khalil Mack. Mack was a monster against the Raiders, notching three sacks in week one. Now, it will all be put to the test.

Key matchups

Joey Bosa and Khalil Mack vs. Orlando Brown Jr, and Andrew Wylie

One of the matchups to keep a keen eye on is how the Chiefs plan to block the two very talented pass-rushers for the Chargers. While one would expect there to be a plan as to how they will be dealt with, Mahomes took a number of shots from Arizona’s pass-rushers who pale in comparison to Los Angeles’s talent.

Mike Williams vs. Kansas City’s defensive backs

While Keenan Allen is the best receiver on the Chargers roster, Mike Williams has given the Chiefs defensive backfield all kinds of struggles in the past. Last season, Williams was targeted 18 times in their two matchups for a grand total of 10 receptions for 171 yards and 2 touchdowns. If Keenan Allen is held out for this one, look for the Chargers to go to Williams early and often.