The Chiefs have had a rollercoaster type season. The erratic turnovers paired with the highlight reels. Many fans have held onto the ride and are ready to see this team play consistently, similar to a merry-go-round. The team is coming off of a nail-biter victory over the New York Giants on Monday Night Football. With a record of 4-4, they look to take on the Green Bay Packers in Week 9. For a Chiefs victory, they will need to focus on three keys.
Jordan Love Starting at Quarterback
According to ESPN, the Green Bay Packers announced starting quarterback Aaron Rogers would be out of the game. Rogers tested positive for Covid-19.
The backup to Aaron Rogers is Jordan Love. Love was drafted by the Packers out of Utah State in 2020 with their 1st round pick No. 26. He has appeared in 2 games during his career in which he attempted 7 passes, 5 of those completed for 68 yards.
The Kansas City Chiefs have struggled on defense in 2021. Lack of pass rush and sacks has caused this defense to rank in the bottom of the NFL. The Chiefs have an opportunity to take advantage of an inexperienced quarterback and apply pressure. The Packers will look to lean on their veterans to assist with the young quarterback. Packers running back Aaron Jones could see an increase in carries. Running the football plays in favor of the Kansas City Chiefs leading tackler Nick Bolton. Bolton is a downhill, physical linebacker who has demonstrated he can play the gaps.
Bolton currently has 66 total tackles. He is ranked No. 12 in the NFL in total tackles. If the Chiefs can manage the running attack and force Jordan Love to throw the football it could end well for the Kansas City Chiefs.
Continue to Utilize the Running Game
The Green Bay Packers have allowed an average of 331.8 yards per game 115 of those yards came from rushing the football. The Kansas City Chiefs offense is averaging 412.9 yards, 116.8 yards coming from running the football. A key to a Chiefs victory is utilizing the offensive line built to block and run the football. Darrel Williams has stepped up in a big way after the knee injury of starting running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire. Another bright spot in the rushing attack is Derrick Gore.
Derrick Gore is an agile, physical running back. In 2021 Gore has rushed 11 times for 48 yards and a touchdown. He is averaging 4.4 yards per attempt. The stats do not do him justice for visually seeing him run the football. He runs with his head up and finds holes created by his offensive lineman. The 27-year-old running is playing in his first season with the Chiefs. Gore was an undrafted free agent from UL Monroe.
Eliminate the Turnovers
Patrick Mahomes and the offense have had an uncharacteristic season turning over the football to opposing teams. According to Statmuse, Patrick Mahomes is tied with Trevor Lawrence for most turnovers standing at 12. The Chiefs have a total of 19 turnovers in 2021. Compared to 16 total in 2020. This football team needs to focus on the little things. Starting with giving the football to the other team.
In 2021 the Green Bay Packers have forced 18 turnovers, 11 interceptions, and 7 fumble recoveries. The Packer can force turnovers, but if the Chiefs eliminate turning the ball over it will be hard for the Packers to contain Patrick Mahomes.
In the end, the Chiefs need to play a well-rounded football game. They will be at home in front of the Chiefs Kingdom. If they focus on these 3 keys the Chiefs should be victors.
