7 things the KC Chiefs must do to beat the Miami Dolphins

6. Keep Patrick Mahomes clean

Another point that is fairly straightforward. Patrick Mahomes needs to have time in the pocket. Last week, he was under pressure on 44.4% of his dropbacks, though a lot of that was on him as his average time to throw was a staggering 4.79 seconds when pressured. That cannot happen against the Dolphins.

Although the offensive line played fairly well in Denver, in my opinion, the Dolphins have a better pass rusher than Denver, so they need to be prepared. Christian Wilkins, Andrew van Ginkel, Jaelen Phillips, and Bradley Chubb are really good pass rushers.

When Patrick Mahomes is kept clean, his passer rating is 112.6. When under pressure, it's just 57.7, per PFF ($). His adjusted completion % is 82.5 when kept clean and 67.5% when under. His turnover-worthy play % drops from 5.3% to 2.2% when not under pressure.

Whether it's a stellar game from the offensive line, more quick passes/screens, or the pass-catchers simply getting open (which may be an issue versus Miami's strong secondary), Mahomes needs to be clean as he's a much better player when he is.