The Kansas City Chiefs will host the New Orleans Saints in a few hours. To some degree, it’s a must-win for both teams. However, the Chiefs have the advantage of playing at home and under center. So, what has to go right tonight for the Chiefs to prevail?
The New Orleans Saints are a definitive Jekyll and Hyde football team. In weeks one and two, they were the best offense in the NFL. However, they could not sustain it during the last two weeks.
So, they enter this contest with a 2-2 record, and the Chiefs don’t know which Saints team will show up. Still, that shouldn’t matter to Kansas City because, in my view, they are the better-coached team.
That could be the difference in the win for the Chiefs.
First, Patrick Mahomes has to feel more comfortable in the pocket. The Saints pass rush is outstanding, and thus far, in 2024, KC’s offensive line has not played well in the trenches of pass protection and the outside at the tackle positions.
Left Tackle Wayna Morris is making his third start and has settled down the pressures from that side of the line. If Mahomes is going to put up a more consistent offensive attack, he needs to step up, not out of a clean pocket.
Second, Chris Jones is the best defensive player in the game. His knack for making the big play in the fourth quarter has led the Chiefs to their 4-0 start this season.
He has a long history with Saints Quarterback Derek Carr. After what happened two years ago in Kansas City, where an overly aggressive referee negated his impressive strip sack and recovery, I’m sure he has revenge on his mind.
Third, Head Coach Andy Reid has to make plenty of adjustments with Rashee Rice on injured reserve. It was already announced that the Chiefs would not elevate any receivers from the practice squad so that he will roll with his five guys.
Yet, if he activates Tight End Jody Fortson, he could line up at receiver and become another target for Mahomes. The Chiefs can’t replace Rice’s catches and yards, but they can spread the ball to enough playmakers to get chunk yards and first downs.
Fourth, Defensive Coordinator Steve Spagnuolo has been brilliant thus far in 2024. He seems to know when to bring pressure or back off. However, he’s also given up a first-drive score in every game this season.
Yes, it’s true. After the first drive, the Chiefs adjusted like last week against the Los Angeles Chargers, perhaps against a familiar quarterback. That changes tonight.
Lastly, despite being perfect on the season, Kansas City can enter Bye Week undefeated and maintain its separation within the division and the AFC. The surprising start of the 3-2 Denver Broncos is shocking. They have a team riding their rookie quarterback and plenty of momentum.
Only the Houston Texans, 4-1 on the season, can challenge the Chiefs for the top spot in the AFC. With KC’s offense missing a big-time player, I think the mentality should be that this is a playoff game.
