After two disappointing preseason performances, the Kansas City Chiefs took control in the first half, but the backup defense allowed 19 points in the fourth quarter, resulting in a 29-27 loss to the Chiefs.
If you wanted momentum heading into the season opener in two weeks, the Kansas City Chiefs certainly delivered. The first team offense was dominant, and the first team defense shut down the Bears’ offense.
Patrick Mahomes was at his best in the three drives he led in the first half. If not for a dropped touchdown pass by Kareem Hunt, the Chiefs would have scored a touchdown on every drive with the three-time Super Bowl champion at quarterback. Instead, they built a 17-3 lead.
For the night, Mahomes threw for 143 yards, a touchdown, and ran for another eighteen yards. His best play of the night was the 58-yard bomb he threw to Tyquan Thornton in the first quarter.
Furthermore, if you’re looking for another positive highlight, the left side of the line, including left tackle Josh Simmons and left guard Kingsley Suamataia, performed well in their third preseason game.
Rookie running back Brashard Smith delivered another strong performance in both running and receiving. His effort moved him ahead of veteran Elijah Mitchell. It looks like he’s going to be the odd man out since the Chiefs probably will carry three backs.
Travis Kelce also had a strong game, showing the youthful speed and route running we’re used to seeing in a Chiefs uniform. Overall, the offense delivered its best performance of the month, and they seem ready for the season opener.
The first-team defense was strong, especially rookie linebacker Jeffrey Bassa and second-year defender Chamarri Connor. Free agent signee, cornerback Kristen Fulton, played into the fourth quarter and did a great job shaking off the rust from missing most of training camp.
The defense did a great job limiting the Bears’ quarterback to 113 passing yards and a touchdown pass in nearly two quarters of play. The Chiefs finished with two sacks, but it was their impressive side-to-side offense that stood out. As mentioned, Bassa was all over the field, and his growth this summer is a significant boost for the Chiefs’ defense as they prepare for the season opener.
Back-up linebacker Cooper McDonald had a sack, and his stock keeps rising to gain a roster spot. Rookie pass rusher Ashton Gillotte also made some big plays, and it was good to see rookie cornerback Nohl Williams back on the field.
I’m not sure any of the third stringers made a case to make the roster, and the Chiefs are going to be forced to let guys go that will play in the NFL this year, but for the most part, the roster cuts should be swift.
Yet, I suspect a few veterans will have some anxious moments heading into the roster cuts on Tuesday.
Teams that played Thursday night have already cut players, and I suspect Kansas City will release some players over the weekend.
