AFC Game Of The Week
Kansas City Chiefs at Los Angeles Chargers
Chiefs: They’re exactly who we thought they were. It’s one thing when they’re attacking defenses with the passing game. Because defenses already know they have to prepare for Mahomes and company. What I took away from the win against the Houston Texans was the way they ran the ball. Rookie running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire came in and gave them more balance as an offense. I was high on him in college and I think he’ll be productive in this offense. Teams won’t load the box up to stop the run. As far as the defense is concerned, they don’t have to be one of the best units statistically. All they need to do is just make stops and get off the field. After many days off, they return to the field on Sunday to face a divisional rival in their new stadium.
Chargers: I didn’t like the way they looked on Sunday in Cincinnati. They had so many opportunities to blow that game open, but their lackluster performance kept the Bengals in the game. A new chapter started for them on Sunday. Philip Rivers is now a member of the Indianapolis Colts. For the first time since 2005, a new quarterback was under center for them. Tyrod Taylor didn’t have a bad day in his first start. The weapons are still there for them. Keenan Allen, Mike Williams and Hunter Henry are all vital parts of this offense when everything is flowing. On defense, it will always start with Melvin Ingram and Joey Bosa. I was looking forward to watching Derwin James play but an injury sidelined him for the season. It’s their turn to play in the new stadium they will share with the Los Angeles Rams.
Chiefs X-Factor: Demarcus Robinson– He’s just another weapon at Patrick’s disposal. Nine times out of ten if you line him up in the slot, he has the speed to free himself and he’s getting the ball. He’s an excellent deep threat that defenses have a hard time keeping up with.
Chargers X-Factor: Austin Ekeler– He’s had success against the Kansas City Chiefs. In five career games against them, Austin averages close to six yards per carry (5.8). He’s also another threat in the passing game. Look for times when Tyrod will check the ball down to him. Austin will handle the rest. Football is about executing the mismatches.
Final Thoughts: There’s nothing like a divisional showdown. When these two meet, it’s always an interesting game because the Chargers give the Chiefs all they can handle. I see the Chargers keeping themselves in the game, then the champs will be the champs. Those offensive miscues may have helped the Chargers in week one, but it won’t happen when you play the Chiefs. Mahomes should have another day at the office.
Prediction: Chiefs 38 Chargers 20
