Five things the KC Chiefs must do to beat the Denver Broncos

2. Use Isiah Pacheco

The Broncos' defense is terrible. We know that. But their run defense is especially awful. They're dead last in yards allowed per game and yards per rush, plus they're tied for 29th in rushing touchdowns allowed.

The point is that Denver cannot defend the run at all. We know Andy Reid is not too keen on running the football, but that may be the best plan of attack.

Obviously, Isiah Pacheco is Kansas City's best running back. Clyde Edwards-Helaire is okay but does almost nothing better than Pacheco and Jerick McKinnon is more of a pass-protector and pass-catcher than a traditional downhill running back.

Given how bad Denver's run defense is and how the Chiefs should be winning for the majority of the game, Thursday Night has a realistic chance of being Isiah Pacheco's third career 100-yard rushing performance.

Do the Chiefs need to run the football a lot in order to win this game? Probably not, but creating a healthy balance is probably their best chance at creating explosive plays. Smart teams attack their opponent's weakness and one of Denver's most glaring weaknesses is their dismal run defense.

3. Attack the non-Patrick Surtain cornerbacks

I know I just said that the Chiefs should run the football nore, but when they do throw the football, they need to be aggressive.

Other than Patrick Surtain II, Denver's cornerbacks are horrendous. Damarri Mathis has already surrendered 349 yards and four touchdowns in just five games, plus a 153.2 passer rating. Ja'Quan McMillian has given up a 139.6 passer rating in coverage this season. Even Surtain himself has taken a big step back compared to his awesome 2022 season.

Even though the wide receivers on the Chiefs have had issues getting separation so far this season, there should be more opportunities in this game to make plays. No matter if it's zone or man coverage, Denver's depth cornerbacks have been abused and Kansas City should be ready to attack.