Bleacher Report - Articles by Russell Fike

Kansas City Chiefs: Week 12 Report Card

Russell Fike — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 18:55:24 -0500

The win streak is finally over. Maxing out at two games, the Kansas City Chiefs could not parlay the momentum of toppling the reigning Super Bowl Champion Steelers into a victory over the surging San Diego Chargers.

No one believed Kansas City to be the more talented team in this matchup, but at times executed an offensive game-plan that was startlingly good.

However, if a team is to pull an upset it is common to hear the need for “mistake-free” football. The Chiefs (in the spirit of Thanksgiving) threw up a cornucopia of mistakes from which they could not recover.

Here’s how the grades shake out:

Pass Offense: C-

The Stat line—19/31, 178 yards, one touchdown, and one interception – not egregious, but the numbers only tell half the story.

Chiefs’ quarterback Matt Cassel is finding more time to throw than earlier in the season, but this is largely attributed to pocket awareness.

Cassel seldom has a place to set his feet and scan the field. While he doesn’t always need to scramble or entirely leave the pocket, every down Cassel slides away from the pass rush in a makeshift shanty of a pocket.

Wide receiver Chris Chambers continues to be a solid playmaker, but with Dwayne Bowe still out due to suspension the team struggles to find other legitimate receiving threats. The lack of a strong tight end has become a gaping hole on the team’s roster. No heir apparent to the great Tony Gonzalez has emerged.

Run Offense: B

Running back Jamaal Charles continues to prove himself a great asset to this team. Despite nearly a hundred yards on only 14 carries, for an average well above six yards-per-carry, Charles is haunted by a looming concern: ball security.

To ask Charles to minimize his use of spin techniques is to marginalize his effectiveness, but while such fancy footwork can lead to hard-fought extra yards, those yards come at increased risk of fumbling. It is becoming clear that KC has a feature running back on their roster.

Charles can be compared to Tiki Barber, the now-retired running back for the New York Giants. Barber was not the largest runner, was known as an exceptional receiver, and early in his career was questioned for his tendency to fumble.

If the Chiefs get anywhere near similar results from Charles over the course of his career there is reason to be excited.

Pass Defense: D

Slogan of the 2009 Chiefs: “We give up big plays.”

Still stinging after being hit in the face for a 54 yard pass to Charger receiver Malcolm Floyd, the Chief’s defense played a deep, soft zone. So, the defense was suspect to body-shot after body-shot as Charger tight end Antonio Gates delivered repeated blows to the gut of the Chief’s defense.

The ability of the Kansas City linebackers to play coverage in the 3-4 is something many saw as a problem area as they field many converted defensive ends. There is a learning curve and this week Kansas City fell on the low end of the spectrum.

Where Kansas City is most clearly lacking is in their pass rush. Charger’s quarterback, Philip Rivers was never sacked and was nearly never even pressured on his way to 317 yards and two touchdowns on 28 pass attempts. Talk about time to look down field.

Run Defense: B

On a day where the commentators emphasized Charger running back, LaDainian Tomlinson’s climb up the list of all-time leaders in NFL rushing yardage, it was easy to overlook his mere 39 yards on 13 carries. In fact, as a team, the Chargers were held to 2.8 yards-per-carry.

In summary:

Run offense and defense = good

Pass offense and defense = need improvement

Kansas City continues to show signs of being a talented team, but four turnovers that resulted in 28 San Diego points is too much for even the best teams to overcome.

Play of the game: The redemption song of Chris Chambers came on a seven yard touchdown pass from Cassel. On third and four from the Charger's eight yard line, Chambers came underneath on a two-yard drag and caught the ball in space as he cleared from the middle of the field. Chambers took for the sideline and spun back toward the middle of the field, falling backward, with ball extended to break the plane of the end zone against his former teammates.

Kansas City Chiefs: Week Eleven Report Card

Russell Fike — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 16:31:10 -0500

Surprise! Kansas City is here to contend. It is only one win. No, wait, it’s two wins in a row…isn’t that, dare I say it? A winning streak!?

While the Pittsburgh Steelers were hampered as the heart of their defense, safety Troy Polomalu sat out due to injury, it was still clear that no one believed the Chiefs had a chance to win against the reigning Super Bowl Champions.

With a large number of Steeler fans in attendance at Arrowhead Stadium, it was those who dawn the red and gold and attend week-after-week who cheered on a Ryan Succop game-winning field goal in overtime.

Here’s how the grades shake out:

Pass Offense: B

It is easy to be torn here as quarterback Matt Cassel’s performance was far from “lights out,” but plays were made when it mattered most.

Cassel’s inaccuracy and tendency to hold the ball too long continue to be a problem for the Kansas City pass offense.

Once receiving a fresh set of downs inside the Pittsburgh ten, the goal-to-go situation was marginalized as Cassel, with time to throw, took a sack on third down and the team settled for a field goal.

Cassel’s completion percentage is hovering in the low fifties and when you get knocked down as much as he does, every throw that gets out of his hands counts.

However, key elements of a great passing game made themselves present.

It is exciting to see head coach and offensive coordinator Todd Haley willing to air-it-out on first down. The Chiefs took a number of shots downfield.

The passing game was also clutch, as wide receiver Chris Chambers made the big play in overtime to set up the 22 yard Succop kick.

Chris Chambers has made his presence known quickly, Lance Long has fast become a local favorite, and Bobby Wade gives a viable threat to make clean catches and potentially break long runs. Even with Dwayne Bowe suspended, this passing offense has potential to be more than respectable.

Run Offense: B

Larry who? Fans hope this question can be raised on a weekly basis.

With Haley finally giving running back Jamaal Charles the duties of a featured role, the running back has responded by playing hard and doing the small things.

Oh yeah, the guy also had a 97 yard kickoff return for a touchdown, but that’s special teams.

Charles is not the biggest back, weighing less than 200 pounds, but he runs with authority and finishes runs. He may not run a linebacker over, but multiple times you saw him bounce off of a hit, keep his feet, and head back up field.

The most exciting thing about Charles (aside from pure speed) is his patience in letting holes develop and finding how to exploit what the defense gives him. He is reminiscent of Priest Holmes in that he shouldn’t simply be sent into the teeth of the defense down after down, but on offense certainly doesn’t feel confined to running perimeter run plays.

Charles is showing surprising versatility and will be a spark plug in this offense for seasons to come. Next, it would just be nice to see a couple 100 yard games and some great short-yardage runs.

Pass Defense: B+

Quick note: Cornerback Brandon Flowers can teach linebackers in this league how to tackle. Every Pop Warner coach in America would do well to sit their athletes in front of game footage of Flowers.

Kansas City got gashed for a number of yards, but came up clutch as they helped the offense earn 10 points off two clutch interceptions.

In the absence of Mike Vrabel, it was the former Division III college athlete, Andy Studebaker, who filled in as an outside linebacker and made his presence known.

I highlighted Studebaker as a player to watch during Kansas City’s preseason, although primarily for his abilities as a pass rusher, but in this game it was Studebaker who caught both interceptions.

One came by plucking the ball out of the air and the other came as Pittsburgh quarterback, Ben Roethlisberger threw it right to Studebaker who was playing his zone. Neither was particularly spectacular, but there’s a lot to be said for playing one’s defensive assignment.

He was in position to make the plays because the defensive coordinator called a play that put him in position to capitalize. That kind of smart play can lead to more big plays than simply exceptional athletic ability. However, anyone who saw Studebaker outrun Steelers receiver Santonio Holmes after a pick knows the guy isn’t lacking speed.

KC’s pass rush struggled until the fourth quarter, when they came alive, sparked by a Mike Brown sack that came on a safety blitz.

Run Defense: C+

Good, but not great.

Ron Edwards is showing some strong push from the nose tackle position and works well with the tandem of youngsters on the ends, Glenn Dorsey and Tyson Jackson. However, the Chiefs would be well-served to find a premiere run-stuffing nose tackle that would allow players like Dorsey to utilize their big-bodied athleticism.

With converted defensive ends like Tamba Hali playing outside linebacker there should be more complicated blitz schemes to confuse an offensive line with than simply sending the outside linebacker from the edge.

If at least two members of an offensive line are required to occupy a premiere nose tackle, gaps are likely to open up and exploit with some unique zone-blitzes.

Special Teams: A

Why isn’t this an A+?

Succop was a perfect two for two on field goals, including the game winner. He booted kickoffs for touchbacks. Punter Dustin Colquitt gave his normal pro bowl caliber performance, forcing fair catches inside Pittsburgh’s own twenty. The return game even showed up, providing the first score of the game with a 97 yard kickoff return for six.

So why only an A? Kick coverage has big room for improvement as Steelers’ return man, Stefan Logan, had too many returns that swallowed up big chunks of yards.

Play of the game:

With the Steelers threatening to turn the game into a one-sided affair, passing in a goal-to-go situation, Andy Studebaker intercepted Ben Roethlisberger just inside his own end zone and streaked down the sideline with Brandon Flowers in stride to help block pursuing defenders, the outside linebacker rumbled all the way to inside the Pittsburgh ten, turning the tables on the Super Bowl champs.

Kansas City Chiefs-Pittsburgh Steelers: Three Key Matchups for Sunday

Russell Fike — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 18:19:21 -0500

The Kansas City Chiefs and the Pittsburgh Steelers are coming off of very different 2008 seasons.

The Steelers, of course, were the Super Bowl Champions, whereas Kansas City finished with only two wins and their second consecutive top-five pick in the draft. A dichotomous matchup between these two teams takes place in week 11 of the NFL season.

The Steelers have “struggled” to a mark of 6-3, in a relative downward spiral from their place atop the NFL. It would be nice to say the Chiefs are also moving in the opposite direction from last year. However, Kansas City mirrors last year’s record with only two wins.

Despite the hoopla surrounding the “Pittsburgh collapse,” and the flurry of commotion regarding the upheaval of the Chiefs organization, this is still a matchup of an elite NFL team versus a basement dweller.

Despite the difference in talent between these two teams, there are still some intriguing matchups that might play a factor if a major upset is in the works.

Brandon Flowers-Hines Ward

Neither of these players is the most physically gifted, meaning, neither of these players would blow someone’s socks off with eye-popping combine numbers.

Chiefs cornerback Brandon Flowers saw his value drop in the draft due to a poor 40-time and Steelers receiver Hines Ward is never in a conversation of the fastest receivers in the league. However, both are arguably among the premiere players at their respective positions.

Ward established himself long ago as a crafty, savvy veteran who exceeds the expectations of him merely based on a physical examination. The former Super Bowl MVP is the Steelers all time leader in receptions, receiving yards, and touchdowns.

Flowers is a youngster who is quickly making a name for himself. Flowers has hung with the speedsters like Darrius Heyward-Bey of the Raiders and is an exceptional open-field tackler. He is emerging as a potential lock-down corner that may see several Pro Bowls in his future.

Flowers' seemingly sub-par speed means he exceeds as a student of the game and the almost intellectual matchup with Ward may prove a lesson for Flowers, who hopes to show he is ready to be more teacher than student.

Ben Roethlisberger’s Tendency to Hold on to the Ball too Long-The Struggling Kansas City Pass Rush

Pittsburgh’s quarterback is a big man. Ben Roethlisberger, or Big Ben, stands at 6’5", 241 pounds. He is known for his ability to tear away from many would-be tacklers, which seems to inflate his confidence in holding the ball, to let plays further develop in the secondary.

Kansas City has seen mild improvement in their pass rush, but improvement doesn’t say much, as last year the Chiefs set an NFL record for fewest sacks in a season. Still, with Roethlisberger's tendency to hold on to the ball, Kansas City may have an opportunity to add to their total of 12 sacks on the year.

Matt Cassel-The Steelers Defense Sans Troy Polomalu

Troy Polomalu, a safety out of USC, has made five consecutive Pro Bowls and is considered the best in the league at his position.

A Steelers defense without Polomalu, is like the Colts offense losing Peyton Manning. Polomalu’s presence, or lack thereof, cannot be overemphasized.

In recent weeks, Kansas City quarterback Matt Cassel has been given more time to stand in the pocket and make plays. Despite the fact that number one receiver Dwayne Bowe is out of the game because of suspension, Kansas City has accumulated a varied body of pass catching weapons. Without having to face Polomalu, Kansas City’s best chance to hang with the reigning Super Bowl champs may be through the air.

Kansas City-Oakland: If You Build It, They Will Run

Russell Fike — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 20:34:53 -0500

An eye-for-an-eye, going blow-for-blow, what goes-around-comes-around.

All are slogans that surmise the season series between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Oakland Raiders.

Slain by the big play too many times this season, it appeared the Chiefs would fall victim to the bad habit yet again in week 10.

Oakland went 70 yards on four plays that included a 60-yard run by Michael Bush. This was answered by a 44 yard scamper for a touchdown by Chiefs back Jamaal Charles, for the team’s first rushing touchdown of the year.

These big plays aside, the Chiefs simply outplayed the Raiders and didn’t shoot themselves in the foot, despite three turnovers. The season series is split 1-1, both winning on the opposing team’s turf.

For an analysis, here’s what jumps out:

Jamaal Charles Looks Like an Upgrade from Larry Johnson

Charles played a key role in several Kansas City firsts for the season. He scored the team’s first rushing touchdown, notched the team’s first 100-plus yard rushing performance (the second of his career), all on the way to aiding the team’s first victory within the AFC West.

As was anticipated, the back’s best runs came on extended plays to the outside, where if Charles can find a seam or hit the corner he is a threat to break the play for a touchdown.

However, it was the speed and power with which Charles hit holes between the tackles that was surprising. He showed an ability to fight for the hard yards, running with an authority that doesn’t match the player’s physical build.

Most exciting is the patience Charles shows, reminiscent of Priest Holmes. This is a weapon with a lot of potential who now has a regular opportunity to make plays as he did in week 10.

The Football Gods Aligned the Cosmos

Twice, plays were not overturned in favor of the Chiefs.

The first was a Mark Bradley catch and run on 3rd-and-23 where Bradley dove and extended the ball to earn the first. In a call the commentators disagreed with, the referees upheld the ruling on the field of being just short, forcing a punt.

Late in the fourth, with Oakland driving and looking to tie the game, or win given the extra point, Oakland’s number one pick of 2009, Darrius Heyward-Bey, caught a 22-yard pass tiptoeing to stay inbounds.

Again, the controversial play fell in favor of the Raiders after review. Any Chiefs fan watching the game will adamantly insist the play was out-of-bounds.

Yet if you subscribe to the idea of the football Gods, NFL equilibrium was achieved as Heyward-Bey would juggle the ball as he attempted to receive a pass on the very next play.

Chiefs safety Mike Brown plucked the ball out of the air and wisely stepped out of bounds to seal the victory for the Chiefs.

Matt Cassel Will Not Win Games for the Chiefs

This isn’t to say that with Cassel at quarterback the Chiefs are going to lose. Rather, it has become increasingly clear that Cassel is not quite the savior of the franchise that many fans and commentators had hyped him to be this past offseason.

Cassel is more than a functional quarterback as at times he looks very good. However, he has been given more time to throw these past two weeks and he is far from lighting it up.

He throws his receivers jump balls that come in too low, hits running backs with bullets they can’t hold onto, and his accuracy is just a little off.

However, to learn this may be a relief as he can now be another piece of this team’s puzzle instead of having to be the cog upon which all things rely.

Instead of a criticism, this truth can be seen as a step toward a cohesive team identity that fans hope will be synonymous with winning.

In spite of all of this, it was enormously encouraging to see the Chiefs pass downfield on first down.

Where Cassel does shine is his knack for leadership both in the huddle and on the sideline.

It’s clear that Cassel is physically tough with how many times he’s been hit this season, but enduring the barrage of criticisms and comments from head coach Todd Haley as he goes to the sideline has proven Cassel’s mental toughness as well.

Play of the Game

Down by seven and with a 1st-and-10 at the Kansas City 26, Oakland was looking to potentially tie the game. Bruce Gradkowski had replaced JaMarcus Russell at quarterback for the Raiders and had looked good at the helm of the silver and black’s offense.

After hitting rookie receiver Darrius Heyward-Bey for a 22-yard gain on 3rd-and-1, Gradkowski looked to the receiver again.

Heyward-Bey got open, but couldn’t receive the ball cleanly as he juggled the ball, which floated into the air and was grabbed as gently as a one might catch a falling baby by Chief’s safety Mike Brown to ensure a Kansas City win.

Kansas City Chiefs Looking Ahead Post-Larry Johnson

Russell Fike — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 20:03:21 -0500

What happened?

Unpopular, egomaniacal, and talented, such are the thoughts and perceptions of Larry Johnson as he departs Kansas City.

To most Chiefs fans it appeared that Johnson never quite enjoyed playing in Kansas City. Perhaps Kansas City was not the problem, as one can question if LJ truly enjoys the game of football. Even when the media lauded LJ as being “good,” or, “quiet,” all this meant was a standoffish isolated player hadn’t spoken out brashly against his team or gotten in trouble with the law.

There is no shock in seeing LJ go. In fact, the amount of attention garnered by a player who only played two strong seasons is pretty appalling.

Looking to the future, Chiefs fans see some familiar faces in larger roles.

In Week Nine, head coach and offense coordinator Todd Haley split 12 carries among Jamaal Charles, Kolby Smith, and Dantrell Savage. The Chiefs will utilize this three-man running back-by-committee of players 24 years of age or younger.

Who are these players?

Smith started six games as a rookie in 2007 and three games in 2008 before suffering an injury midseason. He returned to the field last week and will enter the rotation at running back for the rest of 2009. Smith's numbers are suitable, but unflattering.

Savage beat out running back Jackie Battle in a preseason position battle to stay on the Kansas City roster. The young, undrafted free agent out of Oklahoma State runs a little wild with a smaller frame, but has shown sparks with very limited touches this season and last.

Most promising in this rotation is Charles, a third round draft pick out of Texas a year ago. An explosive speedster, Charles is the only back to find even moderate success behind Kansas City’s 2009 offensive line. Entering Week Nine he was averaging over five yards per carry and he sported a six yard per carry average against the Jacksonville Jaguars this past Sunday.

Will the running backs be the neglected step children of the 53-man roster?

Haley openly chose to found this team’s offensive identity upon a bruising ground game. With LJ gone this leaves only one running back over 200 pounds (Smith).

Additionally, with newly acquired talent at wide receiver bursting onto the scene in the form of Chris Chambers in Week Nine (two touchdowns in his Kansas City debut) and Bobby Wade in Week Two (six catches, 72 yards in his red and gold debut), it’s hard for the Chiefs to ignore the potential for a potent passing attack.

Free agency has not provided the only boost to the receiving corps. Lance Long was brought up from the practice squad and has made an impact quickly as a shifty underneath receiver.

Throw in the bullishly strong and highly talented Dwayne Bowe and there’s a formula for a respectable passing attack.

When LJ was on the team, he received an average of 18 carries per game. Logic would say that the majority of those go to Charles, but in Week Nine, Haley handed the ball off only 12 times.

Just because LJ is gone doesn’t mean the Chiefs can’t run the ball. Quite frankly they couldn’t really run the ball with LJ on the team.

It appears Haley is confused about how he would like to capitalize on the potential of the running backs currently on the roster.

How do we play with these new toys?

Ever received a toy for Christmas as a child and been unable to decipher the instructions? It wasn’t until the instructions were tossed aside and the toy rediscovered after some neglect that everything suddenly made sense.

It appears Haley is undergoing the same kind of learning curve.

Conventional wisdom says the goal is to get Charles into space and let him utilize his speed. Stretch plays, screens, sweeps, and even motioning him out to receiver are all possibilities.

However, critics continue to assert that Charles is not built to run between the tackles. Although he looked pretty good doing so with limited opportunities in Week Nine, injury concerns are a bigger issue still than lack of performance.

In short yardage situations, including at the goal line, fans can expect to see Smith come in and fill a more familiar role.

Finally, Savage will likely provide breathers to both when needed.

For the time being it appears the trio of backs is undergoing the period of neglect mentioned in the Christmas scenario above. A balanced attack being vital in the NFL, Haley will have no choice but to give these three the ball more often.

Just an idea…

Commentators often spoke of how LJ was most effective with a fullback in the formation. This is true of most featured backs. However, with LJ gone, the team is not burdened to give itself away by showing a fullback every time the offense wants to run.

That said, some double running back formations can yield results. Smith and Charles both having starting experience, and are reasonably proficient at pass protection.

The two have complimentary running styles and Charles in particular has strong receiving skills. The two-back set puts defenses on their heels as they don’t know what type of play to expect (run or pass), what style of run they may face (power or speed), or even how the backs might be utilized as an offensive tool (pass protection or run a route).

This potential for both confusing the defense and capitalizing on the skill sets of the players who now need to step up in Kansas City provides a strong argument that the Chiefs do not have to abandon the run game.

In fact, there’s reason to hope it will be better than before.

Kansas City Chiefs: Week Nine Report Card

Russell Fike — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 04:06:13 -0500

Kansas City had a winnable matchup in week nine as they faced a struggling Jacksonville team that has been largely one-dimensional on offense and has uncharacteristically struggled on defense.

The Jaguars have lacked pass rush, accumulating only five sacks on the year going into the matchup with KC, and ranked 26^th in team pass defense.

So it was disappointing to see Kansas City behind 17-6 entering the fourth quarter. When the Jaguars scored late in the fourth the lead appeared insurmountable.

Despite a late rally that left Jaguars head coach, Jack Del Rio, shaking his head on the sideline, Kansas City still fell short. Here’s the grades:

Pass offense: B

Stagnant for much of the game, the inadequacies of the passing game can be largely attributed to the narrow scope of plays called.

As the Chiefs fell behind the only option was to open up the playbook and given the opportunity, quarterback Matt Cassel and the supporting crew showed some good stuff.

Lacking all year from the Chief’s offense has been a “stretch-the-field” type of speed receiver and with newly acquired Chris Chamber’s 54 yard touchdown catch, almost all of which was Cassel’s throw and not yards after the catch.

Lance Long appears to have carved himself a niche as a wily slot receiver with consistent hands complimented by a strong execution of quick routes underneath. If number one receiver Dwayne Bowe can keep the drops down it appears the Chiefs are finally accumulating a body of talent that can scare opponents.

Still, despite the explosiveness there was no consistency and sustained drives are something of the future, not the present.

Running attack: C-

Jamaal Charles got the start at running back, but it was hard to tell based on the stat sheet. Charles only had six carries in the game. He continued his strong play by averaging six yards-per-carry.

It’s odd he didn’t get his number called more by head coach and offensive coordinator Todd Haley, but Charles was the closest thing to a “workhorse” getting half of the 12 run plays called.

Through seven games, the now released, Larry Johnson averaged 18 carries per game for a paltry 2.7 yards-per-carry. Charles has averaged over five yards-per-carry on the year and he is the invisible man?

It is true that Charles does not possess the prototype build for a “between-the-tackles” runner, but he is a playmaker and needs to be shown more respect.

Good grade for production when given the chance, but not enough chances for the run game to earn a better grade.

Run defense: B-

Jacksonville running back Maurice Jones-Drew is a very good running back. He was held under 100 yards on the day and averaged well below four yards-per-carry. Kudos to the defense, but alas, the long touchdown run of Jones-Drew’s understudy, Rashad Jennings, the rookie out of Liberty, drops this grade to a minus.

Pass defense: D-

Kansas City only fielded two safeties. Mike Brown and DaJuan Morgan were only spelled by nickel back Maurice Legget, who rotated into the safety spot, but the Chiefs were picked on for multiple big-plays including a 61 yard touchdown from which the Chiefs never quite recovered.

On the score, Brown took a horrible angle on a Jags receiver, Mike Sims-Walker. Brown appeared to jump the route too shallow and Sims-Walker got behind Brown and took off for the 61 yards score.

The safeties haven’t provided the Chiefs much safety as KC ranks last in the league in number of pass plays for 40 plus yards surrendered.

Still, it is important to note the play of cornerback Brandon Flowers as a bright spot. Particularly, his ability to fight through blocks on a wide receiver screen play and make the tackle for a loss. This is a corner who does not shy from contact.

Special teams: A

Dustin Colquit for team MVP? No? How about Ryan Succop?

The kickers on Kansas City are some of the best in the NFL. Colquit pinned four of his seven punts inside the 20 while averaging over 40 yards per kick.

Succop faced swirling winds on his way to 2/3 on field goals, the miss coming on a 56 yard attempt into the wind in the fading seconds of the second quarter.

Jaguar cornerback Rashean Mathis returned the field goal that fell short and appeared to be on his way to a score when caught from behind by none other than the aforementioned Colquit, the punter!

Succop more than redeemed himself for the miss by recovering his own onside kick late in the fourth.

These kickers looked like athletes.

Play of the Game:

Speed on the outside has arrived!

Emerging from his chambers, Chris Chambers made a splash in his debut wearing Kansas City red.

On third and 18, Cassel received some time and stepped up into the pocket to deliver a 54 yard pass that traveled easily 50 yards in the air, and landed in the hands of Chambers as he outran the defense. This weapon is for real.

Kansas City Chiefs vs. Jacksonville Jaguars: Three Key Matchups

Russell Fike — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 03:44:21 -0500

The Kansas City Chiefs hope to leave the bitter taste of a 1-6 record in the rear view mirror as they come off their bye to face the Jacksonville Jaguars.

The game provides a winnable matchup for Kansas City as the Jaguars have struggled to a record of 3-4. The Jacksonville defense is not the force it has been throughout the franchise history.

Quarterback David Garrard needs to replicate his impressive numbers from 2007 where in 12 starts he only threw three interceptions.

Key Matchups:

Jamaal Charles vs. The Pressure of a Starting Role:

Kansas City’s third round pick in 2008 was a hurdler turned football running back: Jamaal Charles of the Texas Longhorns.

An extraordinary talent who has been criticized as not having the physical build to handle the duties of a featured back, Charles will have a chance to show off with a larger role given to him as a result of the twitter fiasco surrounding Larry Johnson.

He has a 5.3 career yards per carry average (this was the average ypc of his worst college season) and has maintained a 5.0 ypc average this season.

Expect the Chiefs to adapt their running game to get Charles into space with more sweeps and stretch plays, as well as running back screens and motioning Charles out wide.

There are lingering questions about Charles’ ability to run between the tackles, but he does bring less predictability to the lineup than the North-South-Smash-Football style of LJ.

Chris Chambers vs. Derek Cox:

Head coach and offensive coordinator Todd Haley starting making comments Wednesday that insinuated newly acquired wide receiver Chris Chambers would play against the Jags.

To put some perspective on this, the same week wide receiver Bobby Wade was acquired he went on to post six catches for 72 yards against the Oakland Raiders.

Kansas City’s No. 1 receiver, Dwayne Bowe, is sure to be covered by the Pro Bowl caliber Rashean Mathis, leaving whoever starts opposite Bowe matched up with rookie Derek Cox.

The Jaguars rank 26th in the league in pass defense, allowing over 240 yards per game and have tallied only five sacks on the year. The Chiefs need to take advantage.

Chambers fits the physical mold of a true No. 2 receiver more than Wade, and if ready, Chambers allows Wade to play his more natural position of slot receiver (the role he played in the big game against Oakland).

Kansas City Defense vs. Maurice Jones-Drew:

It’s no secret that Jacksonville’s offense has been largely a one-man band. MJD has met every expectation of him as he stepped into a starting role with Jacksonville’s release of Fred Taylor. He boasts a 5.5 yards per carry average while running his way to 640 yards and 10 touchdowns.

The 5’7” beast with the strong thighs of a powerful, yet nimble back will be given the rock repeatedly.

Can the 3-4 defense of the Chiefs hold up?

Thin at nearly every position, the Chiefs are particularly suspect at nose tackle where only Ron Edwards and Kenny Smith are in rotation.

Smith saw his first football action since 2003 as he has struggled with injuries from then to present. However, the ability of the nose tackle to clog the middle, freeing up the line backers to make tackles and shoot gaps in key in the 3-4 and will be vital to keeping MJD in check.

Marcus Allen Declares Comeback in Light Of Larry Johnson Struggles

Russell Fike — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 17:28:20 -0400

Many athletes have found it impossible to stay away from the sport they love. Brett Favre is the most recent in a number of great athletes who have returned to the professional stage. Floyd Mayweather came back to boxing, Michael Jordan returned to basketball and now Marcus Allen will dawn the football pads once again.

“Given the situation in Kansas City I just want to show that there are still classy athletes playing the game,” Allen said of returning to the Chiefs in obvious reference to the turmoil surrounding the Larry Johnson Twitter situation.

In fact, at age 49, not only is Allen pressing the boundaries of what an athlete can do, but is likely too old to be Internet savvy. This is an asset, considering how many athletes stir controversy with the Twitter frenzy.

It is clear most consider Allen too old to be a factor, but he isn’t swayed. Considered a short yardage and goal line specialist even into the twilight of his career, he is hoping to emulate the vampires of the “Twilight” movie series as he will try to showcase some eternal youth.

“I believe I can be a factor in more than just short yardage situations,” said the running back who has accumulated 123 touchdowns in his career, currently good for second all-time.

Allen has already won NFL Comeback Player of the Year in 1993 and could push to win the honor again. Inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2003, despite being nearly 50 years old, his skills and attitude will be a welcome addition to the Chiefs locker room.

Still, it may prove a struggle for Allen to even earn a spot on Todd Haley’s team.

During Allen’s previous tenure with Kansas City the Chiefs won more games than any other NFL franchise. The team won the AFC West three of Allen’s five seasons in KC, in ’93, ’95, and ’97.

Can Marcus Allen bring back winning ways to Kansas City? Time may—or may—not tell. Considering we are near the end of October, it only seemed fair to play a trick by enticing fans with a possible treat.

Happy Halloween

*all quotes in this article are purely fictional and do not express the views or opinions of Marcus Allen

Kansas City Chiefs' Week Seven Loss Is on Matt Cassel's Shoulders

Russell Fike — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 16:16:07 -0400

2+2=5? That is inaccurate.

Unfortunately, so is quarterback Matt Cassel.

It has been hard to criticize Cassel, who came into the season under scrutiny for being the beneficiary of a strong team and facing unrealistic expectations.

He has played behind arguably the worst pass protection in the NFL. Prior to Week Seven, he had shown great improvisational ability when the pocket collapsed and thrown a fair number of touchdowns while keeping the interceptions down.

Week Seven showed a very different story. In fact, a weakness of Cassel’s game was put on spotlight. A problem overshadowed by other difficulties of the team has gathered glaring attention.

Cassel is not a very accurate thrower.

While anyone looking at the box score of the Chief’s matchup with the San Diego Chargers can point to Cassel’s three interceptions and understand the lopsided score in the losing effort there are several other specific examples of lacking accuracy.

On one play running back Jamaal Charles motioned out of the backfield and acting as a wide receiver took off on a streak pattern. He outran the entire Charger defense for what should have been a significant gain, if not a touchdown, but Cassel threw the ball over the outside shoulder.

Charles had to turn his head blind to the ball to make try and make on a play on the ball that sailed out of bounds. One touchdown lost.

Another example is when wide receiver Bobby Wade came wide open on a wheel route. Coming behind the outside receiver from the slot, Wade found an open field in front of him. Cassel located the receiver but again pushed the bar too far outside.

Wade made the catch but took himself out of bounds in doing so. An accurate pass would have hit Wade in stride, allowing him the opportunity to run wild down the right sideline. Two touchdowns lost.

These examples perfectly illustrate the frustrations of head coach and offensive coordinator Todd Haley, who demands a great deal out of his quarterbacks. It’s clear Cassel is talented enough to make the correct reads with time, but he simply isn’t getting the ball there.

Crossing patterns have receivers stopping short to lunge at a ball thrown behind them. Overthrown seam routes mean tight ends and receivers not only have a difficult catch but leave themselves exposed to a monster hit.

Unarguably, Cassel is the quarterback of this team and, given his monster contract, is likely the quarterback of the future. One can argue these misfires are the result of anticipating an oncoming hit from the pass rush as being knocked down is something Cassel has come to accept as normal.

However, if, during the offseason, the offensive line is revamped, and Cassel is provided the help he needs to thrive, the young quarterback has to hold up his end of the bargain to keep his job.

Kansas City Chiefs Get No Respect

Russell Fike — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 20:46:01 -0400

"I tell ya I get no respect from anyone. I bought a cemetery plot. The guy said, 'There goes the neighborhood!'"

Now deceased, comedian Rodney Dangerfield gives Kansas City Chiefs fans a perspective to identify with.

Following up on my gamecap coverage of our team’s first win, I found the KC Chief community flooded by articles not about the red and gold…well, a different red and gold, anyway.

The influx of new articles are solely about the Redskins. Articles that mention the Chiefs in passing steal the headlines of our beloved community.

Those at Arrowhead care little about the future of Jim Zorn. They wish not to point fingers at the Redskins organization. Redskins owner Dan Snyder is not to “blame” for a Chiefs victory that other writers seem to deny could ever happen.

A Chiefs victory is not a sign of the apocalypse.

Let’s face facts. The Chiefs won. Fair and square, we beat another team just as we’ve been beaten so many times before this week.

However, one loss to Kansas City and it’s the downfall of an entire organization. It’s not as if Washington is going to be washed into the ocean like the lost city of Atlantis.

It’s tiring to see the accomplishment of breaking a nine-game losing streak dismissed as the embarrassing miscue of another struggling franchise.

The focus of the media and our fellow bleacher creatures seems to be on the negative, the downfall of Washington. It’s time to embrace some positive, a Chiefs victory. In a season where there may not be much positive to celebrate, the fans owe it to themselves to cherish Week 6.

Good or bad, there are too many fans that will remain loyal to the Kansas City Chiefs.

“My father had his own way of showing love. He always carried around the picture of the kid who came with his wallet.”

I will continue to wear my Chiefs jersey no matter how pretty or ugly things get.

Kansas City Chiefs: So What If She Ain't Pretty? (A Week 6 Love Story)

Russell Fike — Sun, 18 Oct 2009 16:53:57 -0400

The Chiefs are kings of Missouri.

No touchdown, no problem. Head coach/offensive coordinator Todd Haley, quarterback Matt Cassel, and general manager Scott Pioli, the new triumvirate in Kansas City, earned their first victory by beating the Washington Redskins 14-6.

Game notes included, “one team earned a victory only because both teams can’t lose,” and, “KC blew key opportunities with great field position and a chance to take the lead late.” However, since this is a joyous event for the deprived fans of the red and gold, this article will maintain a primarily positive tilt.

A few facets of the game emerged as key to the win.

Where did this rushing attack come from?

Washington has struggled this year, but its run defense ranked fourth in the NFL coming into today’s game. The pricey acquisition of pro-bowl defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth has paid dividends.

Haynesworth gave the Kansas City offense fits all day as viewers winced when running back Larry Johnson ran into the teeth of the Redskin’s defense.

However, it was Johnson and the Chiefs’ offensive line that asserted themselves this week as LJ posted his best game of the season with 83 yards on 3.6 yards per carry average. Not exceptional numbers, but the run game was potent in the first half and stayed steady through the second.

Where is the love?

Mr. Irrelevant, kicker Ryan Succop, was 4-for-4 on field goal attempts as he scored all but two of KC’s 14 points. Just for kicks (pun intended) let’s pose a question. Who has been a better draft pick, number three overall pick defensive end Tyson Jackson, or seventh rounder, number 256 overall, Succop?

Not to mention which player has a better cost to benefit ratio.

For anyone who argues that kickers are “supposed” to do their job, one needs only point to the end of the Ravens and Vikings game. Kickers are supposed to do their job the way Dwayne Bowe isn’t supposed to drop passes, but all is temporarily forgiven in the wake of a victory.

If Tamba Hali didn’t already have a cool name, he has become nickname worthy.

In a brand new role, transitioning to an outside 3-4 linebacker from a 4-3 defensive end, Hali continues to be the pride of Liberia and a monster for the Chiefs.

Hali has matched his sack total of last season by earning his third of the year when he swung down Redskin quarterback Todd Collins for a safety to seal the victory.

Play of the game: Already up by three and looking to extend the lead with 1:47 left, Cassel hit playmaker wide receiver Dwayne Bowe on a quick slant on 2nd-and-14. Bowe broke tackles and ran hard for a 32-yard gain. This type of “quick-hitter” is something the Chiefs need to do to fend off aggressive pass rushes and convert short yardage situations when the run game is getting stuffed.

This play type has been seen before, but Bowe has had some drops running before he has the ball. The difficulty of bringing Bowe down and his ability to break tackles for additional yards is what makes these drops particularly devastating to witness.

The losing streak extending into last season will not reach double digits. Kansas City said nine consecutive losses is enough. It’s time to start a winning streak next week against San Diego.

Kansas City Chiefs: Week Five Report Card

Russell Fike — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 13:45:24 -0400

Some commentators saw Week Five as an opportunity for Kansas City to pull an upset over a struggling Dallas Cowboys team that has been vulnerable on the road of recent.

The Chiefs did not disappoint in providing a scare, but a plus-two turnover ratio and 10 points off of those turnovers was not enough to put one in the win column. This week’s grades should help explain why.

Pass Offense: C+

For the third week in a row, the passing score jumped a half-grade. For a third week in a row, Chiefs quarterback Matt Cassel threw for two touchdowns with no picks. The half-grade jump is for a season-best 253 passing yards.

The additions of Bobby Wade this year and Mark Bradley last season have given this passing attack dynamic potential as they combine forces with Dwayne Bowe.

Glaringly detrimental to offensive production though is the offensive line. It will be a miracle if Cassel survives the season injury-free getting hit as much as he does.

Running Attack: F

Heavy blame is showering down on Larry Johnson for an inept running attack. True, averaging less than two yards per carry doesn’t cut it, but not all the blame can fall upon LJ’s shoulders.

If this season provides anything for Chiefs fans, it is a cruel lesson as to the importance of an offensive line. Instead of ranting on the ineffectiveness of the run game and how fans wince every handoff, let’s look at what can be done.

How about moving the aging Brian Waters from left guard to center and extend his playing life? Bench Mike Goff, who looks past his prime and won’t likely return to this team beyond this season. Give the rotating starters at the right tackle spot, such as Ike Ndukwe, a shot at guard. If they could get a look to start at tackle, they can fill in at guard. Get Wade Smith, a player with some starts under his belt, a chance to get in on the line.

A runner is only part of an effective rushing game.

Run Defense: C-

Pro: The bruising, forceful Marion Barber was essentially a nonfactor. Con: Tashard Choice more than picked up the slack, rushing for 92 yards on just eight carries.

The blitzing style of the 3-4 leaves the Chiefs vulnerable to runners who break the line of scrimmage, but it’s hard to hate on a defense that kept the red and gold alive.

One reason the statistics are deceiving is that when an offense has trouble staying on the field, the defense is subjected to a greater number of plays. More plays=more yards. A couple of positives are Glenn Dorsey is looking strong as a run stopper, and the tackling of Brandon Flowers (a corner!) is exciting to watch.

Pass Defense: D

Kansas City had only one sack. It came on a nice inside move from Tamba Hali, who beat Flozell Adams to make the three-yard loss. However, a consistent rush is still lacking.

There should be no qualms with either of the starting corners. Corner is a position where one can play extremely well and only be remembered for one missed play. The flipside of this is the egotistical receiver who can drop passes, but be remembered for the one or two big plays they make.

The perfect example of this is Miles Austin, who burned the Chiefs big time on his way to 250 yards and two touchdowns, including the overtime winner. However, Austin also dropped another potential touchdown, but that play is largely forgotten.

The NFL today is played and officiated in a way that even the best corners will be beat occasionally. However, to allow a single receiver this kind of game is inexcusable.

Special Teams: C-

There is no logical reason why the left guard and center don’t even stand up to block on field goal attempts.

This was pointed out by commentators last week and this flawed practice led to the field goal block on a Ryan Succop attempt from 53 yards that could have been the game winner for Kansas City. The Dallas special teams leaped over the Chiefs’ blockers with their heads down and put an end to a strong drive late in the fourth—unacceptable.

Play of the Game:

On 4th-and-7 and down by a touchdown with only 26 seconds remaining, Cassel hit Bowe on an inside seam route from the Dallas 16 for a touchdown that would force overtime.

Bowe plucked the ball out of the air and held onto it despite being sandwiched by two Dallas defenders who tried to knock the ball loose with a hit. One of the few times Cassel had a pocket to throw out of Sunday afternoon. This is what fans would like to see more of from the Chiefs. Bowe’s third touchdown of the year was a big one.

Kansas City Chiefs Week Five: Cowboy Fans Survive Heart Attack

Russell Fike — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 01:55:20 -0400

In a back and forth battle that could have fallen either way, the Kansas City Chiefs showed they have some fight, despite falling to 0-5.

While many may believe the Chiefs to be “flatlining” their vital signs showed the team is alive and kicking as they went toe to toe with the Dallas Cowboys. Fans have started to fear the “inevitable” loss, but this week there are three positive observations of upward trends for the Chiefs.

The evolution of quarterback Matt Cassel:

Cassel has been criticized for taking too many sacks because he holds on to the ball too long.

Know how to make a quarter back speed up his decision-making? Have that quarterback get hit on over 50 percent of his dropbacks. This isn’t because of holding onto the ball too long, but because of a struggling offensive line.

A bad offensive line that got worse with the loss of Branden Albert and Mike Goff to injuries late in the game. The severity of these injuries will be looked into, but starting left tackle Albert did not return.

However, Cassel has drawn attention for his ability to move in the pocket and his delivery appears to have sped up. He is finding receivers quickly and is distributing the ball around well. Cassel has not thrown an interception since week two and had his best game of the season against Dallas as he threw for 253 yards and two scores.

Ballhawks are good:

There are certain players who play defense that always seem to be around the ball. Possessing a “nose for the football,” these players recover fumbles, catch tipped balls, and change the momentum of the game in doing so. It can be argued these players are the beneficiaries of lucky bounces, or being in the “right spot at the right time,” but for great defensive playmakers these fortunate turns of events happen with scary regularity.

Kansas City now has two identifiable ballhawks. Safety Mike Brown brought this reputation with him from Chicago, but simply hasn’t been able to stay healthy, while Chief’s nickel back Maurice Leggett is proving to have playmaking ability that may sway the Chiefs to run the nickel a bit more.

This is in contrast however to a player whose skills have noticeably regressed in safety Jarrad Page. Still, turnovers will likely be key to any Chief’s victory this year. Half of KC’s points against Dallas came off of turnovers.

Glenn Dorsey: On the radar:

While he hasn’t emerged as the playmaker Chiefs fans would have liked after being drafted in the top five a year ago, converted defensive tackle, defensive end Glenn Dorsey, has proven to be a run stuffing force out of the 3-4 defense.

This is the more-true role of a defensive end in the 3-4, as the blitzing linebackers provide the primary pass rush. Players like Tamba Hali are allowed to thrive when players like Dorsey engage with and require attention of the offensive linemen. In fact, Hali recorded a sack making an inside move on Cowboys star left tackle Flozell Adams. An inside move!

This defense has players who are beginning to discover their niche within the 3-4 defense.

I had hoped to write that, “an anemic offense did just enough,” but alas, another defeat was in the cards for Kansas City today.

The running game is abysmal and there is a tendency to want head coach and offensive coordinator Todd Haley to open up the playbook and showcase an aerial attack, as he is typically known for. However, already under heavy pass rush Kansas City must keep teams honest by feeding the runner.

It is the effectiveness of Kansas City’s two-minute offense that teases fans at what the red and gold hope will become he status quo.

Kansas City Chiefs: Week Four Report Card

Russell Fike — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 19:34:01 -0400

Kansas City was rightfully the underdog in a Week Four battle, which pit the winless Chiefs against the undefeated New York Giants. A win being unlikely, Chiefs fans watched in hopes of identifying some positives.

Looking for the good in the Chiefs' season is like looking for a needle in a haystack, but with somewhat of a fourth quarter comeback there are glimmers of potential. Grading commences:

Pass Offense: C

A small improvement from last week as the team at least went over 100 yards. This game was the second in a row that quarterback Matt Cassel threw two touchdowns with no picks. However, Cassel also endured five sacks.

The offensive line held well in the fourth quarter and Cassel needs to find trust in having protection as he appeared to anticipate the swarm closing in on him, a familiar theme through the first three weeks.

This grade would be higher if it weren’t for drops by wide receiver Dwayne Bowe and the sub 50 completion percentage.

Running Attack: D+

While the passing game has touchdowns to redeem their underperformance the same is not true for the run game.

There are things to like as running back Larry Johnson is running hard and appears to have an improved attitude. Johnson showed an enthusiasm for shorter, but hard fought gains that may help invigorate this team.

However, the yards per carry has got to get above three yards for LJ; Kansas City did average a respectable 4.2 yard gain per rush.

It appeared the only way Kansas City could get a first down through the first three quarters was to pop a reasonable gain of seven or eight yards. It just needs to happen more.

Run Defense: D+

With the thunder and lightning combo of the bruising Brandon Jacobs and the lithe Ahmad Bradshaw, the New York Giants pose an elite threat on the ground.

Kansas City tacklers appeared to be dragged by Jacobs, and Bradshaw got a little snippy, with a hand check to Mike Vrabel and kicking at defenders as they let him up, on his way to 64 yards on only 12 carries.

Ultimately, KC could not stop anyone with consistency as the three man rush of the 3-4 got little penetration and the linebackers filling the running lanes were either run over by Jacobs, or run by Bradshaw.

Pass Defense: D

No picks and no sacks last week, Kansas City reversed this trend in Week Four. Both starting corner backs, Brandon Flowers and Brandon Carr, repeatedly made impressive plays by establishing position on short, inside routes and playing the deep ball with textbook form.

However, holes deeper in the secondary hurt Kansas City. Whether the safeties got caught in run support, were victimized by Eli’s dissection of zone coverage, or whether they were just late is arguable, but it appears to be a combination.

Mike Brown did have an electrifying sack from his safety spot, so defensive coordinator Clancy Pendergast isn’t afraid to have his deep guys crash the line of scrimmage.

Tamba Hali tallied his second sack of the year while also getting a fumble. He possesses extraordinary ability to lean on the edge rush, but it would be nice to see a wider repertoire of approaches as he can be driven out wide by good blocking. Yet Hali’s transition to outside linebacker is one of the few bright spots for Chiefs fans.

Despite these positives, Manning burned Kansas City for nearly 300 yards and three touchdowns. The three man rush of the 3-4 appears insufficient.

Special Teams: C-

Ryan Succop, the last pick of this year’s draft, better known as Mr. Irrelevant, has made himself relevant quickly. Showing a strong leg on kickoff duties and with a strong percentage of makes in the preseason and through four weeks, KC has found a franchise kicker…if there is such a thing (see David Akers?).

Punter Dustin Colquit showed his usual strong form, but a fumble by kick returner Jamaal Charles on the opening kickoff put a damper on the day and the grade of the special teams.

Play of the Game:

On a 3rd-and-11, New York brought the house crashing down in a heavy blitz. The attempt to deny both Cassel time to throw and the receivers an opportunity to get downfield was countered by a quick throw to Dwayne Bowe for just over 11 yards and a first down.

A simple, unglamorous play, but what Kansas City needs to do more of to counter the pressure teams are applying defensively.

Atrocity of the Refs Changing the Nature of Football

Russell Fike — Sun, 04 Oct 2009 14:01:40 -0400

This article is written at the start of the second quarter of the Kansas City Chiefs game against the New York Giants.

On an Eli Manning pass attempt to Steve Smith across the middle, Jarrad Page laid a textbook hit on the unsuspecting receiver.

Two players going opposite directions at full speed collide and the Kansas City Chiefs were flagged for an unsafe play on a defenseless receiver.

Replays showed that the hit was legal, as the collision involved no helmet to helmet contact.

Within a couple of plays, Smith caught a similar pass over the middle for a touchdown.

What's frustrating here is not simply that the league will issue an essentially meaningless letter of apology to the Chiefs, but that the very nature of football has been manipulated.

Ronnie Lott, considered by many the greatest safety to play the game, was known as a ferocious hitter.

One of the primary jobs of a good safety is to provide intimidation to receivers that dare come across the middle of the field.

If players are flagged for playing legal ball, there is undoubtedly a psychological effect that causes players to alter their game.

Even if marginal, this change in player style and attitude totally undermines the nature of football itself.

So much for the team that wants it more.

It's understandable that owners want their million dollar investments protected. However, maybe we should examine what these athletes are being paid millions of dollars for.

It is part of a receiver's job to risk the perils of going across the middle.

This is not to say that the Chiefs were ever likely to win this game, but for a league that prides itself on parity and being a fan of a winless team it's hard not to feel betrayed by the officials as they perpetuate a sense of hopelessness sure to drive fans away from the game.

Kansas City Chiefs-New York Giants: Three Key Matchups

Russell Fike — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 18:55:29 -0400

After at least appearing to be competitive in their first two games, the Chiefs (0-3) return to Kansas City after a crushing defeat at the hands of the Philadelphia Eagles in Week Three. Things do not get easier in Week Four, as the Chiefs continue their tour of the NFC East.

They host a 3-0 team that is only one season removed from being the Super Bowl champs in the New York Giants.

Key Matchups

Kansas City’s Young Secondary vs. New York’s Young Receivers

Perhaps because former Chiefs coach Herm Edwards was a defensive back himself, the only set of players left relatively intact from his tenure as Kansas City's coach is the secondary.

The second-year duo of Brandon Flowers and Brandon Carr on the corners is the cornerstone of an exemplary up-and-coming group. Both Carr and Flowers have played well, but have missed opportunities at game breaking plays.

Teamed up with a former seventh-round pick and K.C. regular Jarrad Page, and the veteran two-time pro bowler from Chicago, Mike Brown, Kansas City fields an athletic, hard-hitting group.

None of New York’s three receivers atop their depth chart are over the age of 24 and only one has played more than two seasons in the NFL. Steve Smith and Domenik Hixon are in seasons three and four, respectively, with Mario Manningham proving himself to be a young playmaker in his second season.

It’s true that Eli Manning will have time against the K.C. pass rush, and with time he can pick apart a talented secondary. But the onus falls upon Kansas City’s youngsters in the secondary to force coverage sacks.

Todd Haley vs. Trust Issues

The expression “running scared” has been used to effectively describe the play of Kansas City through three weeks. Head coach Todd Haley has not allowed his players the freedom to make mistakes in an attempt to be competitive.

Rather, crippled by the fear of not doing something the “Haley way" most players have botched opportunities to make a play.

The team appears to crumble under the rigidity of the iron fist approach of the current coaching staff.

Ask your players to give their best and don’t attempt to shelter them within a game of watered down play-calling and double digit punt attempts.

If this team doesn’t win soon, Haley will prove himself as a very difficult coach for whom to play. The punitive approach may help the team stay fit, but it will inhibit the mindset beneficial to playing football.

Kansas City Offensive Line vs. New York Defense

The G-Men had 42 sacks last year and led the league with 53 the year before that. New York is a team known for formations that confuse an offense by moving linemen before the snap and changing looks from what was shown pre-snap.

That said, New York currently ranks 25th in the NFL (tied with Kansas City), having accumulated only three sacks on the year.

Still, the porous Chiefs offensive line will have their hands full. Kansas City continues to play musical chairs at right tackle, as their fourth starter since the start of preseason—former Patriot Ryan O’Callaghan—takes the spot of Ikechuku Ndukwe.

O’Callaghan joins a unit largely blamed for Kansas City’s lack of offensive production. That may unfortunately tell the tale of the season unless this unit can begin to prove some people wrong. There’s no better time to start proving their worth than against the vaunted Giants defense in Week Four.

Todd Haley and the Chiefs: Learning Bad Habits

Russell Fike — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 17:08:45 -0400

What makes for better front office management in the NFL? Does success stream to those who are impulsive, gutsy, and spontaneous, or formulaic, cautionary, and evaluative?

The answer resembles a successful NFL offense in that a balanced approach is typically best. Continuing from the offseason and into 2009, the Kansas City Chiefs have seen an overhaul of the team conducted with reactionary fervor and tempered patience.

Quarterback Tyler Thigpen’s trade to Miami is a testament to the knowledge of Chief’s general manager Scott Pioli. With the reel Thigpen made for himself in 11 starts for Kansas City last year in which he put up numbers comparable to current Chief’s starter Matt Cassel (albeit out of the spread offense), Thigpen became a marketable commodity.

With no takers by preseason’s end Pioli boldly kept four active quarterbacks on the 53 man roster knowing there was interest in Thigpen and that injuries could open trade opportunities.

Every NFL general manager has a seat at the 32 player poker table. Their teams and draft picks are the cards in their hands. Pioli refused to fold with four quarterbacks in his hand and was able to lobby for an additional 2010 draft pick.

Add this pick to the second rounder acquired from the Atlanta Falcons for tight end Tony Gonzalez and Pioli continues to deal himself a full hand to negotiate the table with come the end of the 2009 season.

However, this methodical playing of Kansas City’s hand is in contrast to the offseason overhaul of the coaching staff.

The transformation of the Chiefs into the Kansas City Cardinals appears to be an impulsive reaction to one successful season for a team that despite appearing in the Super Bowl only went 9-7 in the regular season.

Downtrodden, Arizona has not achieved any semblance of respectability in recent history. This is not a “winning” program, but a team that made one shocking run through the playoffs. While it is early to label the Cardinals a one-year wonder they do currently stand at 1-2.

Yet it is the Cardinal franchise from which the Chiefs obtained their new head coach, Todd Haley and defensive coordinator, Clancy Pendergast. It is true that these men did not inherit the most talented team in the NFL, but right now the team can hardly run an offensive play without getting flagged for a penalty and that hardly has to do with talent.

It is true that a team can play their hearts out and still at some mental level play to lose the game. Look for what’s going to go wrong. Miss making a key play, that without, a player undermines an otherwise strong showing. The Detroit Lions recently broke their curse and believe they can win football games.

Given the continued dilapidated efforts of Kansas City it appears the Chiefs have fallen under a spell of their own.

A change of regime is as much about changing team mentality as it is a change in scheme. Great teams learn how to win and when a team learns the opposite it’s a hard trend to break.

There is still hope for the franchise under the current staff, but it begins with one win in any game, examining what was done right, and building on success instead of correcting continued failures.

Kansas City Chiefs Vs. Philadelphia Eagles: From Bad To Worse

Russell Fike — Sun, 27 Sep 2009 16:09:00 -0400

Michael Vick was anything but incredible. The plethora of wildcat plays thrown at Kansas City yielded minimal results. Everything that was hyped going into this game was a nonfactor.

For all the flash the stories surrounding Philadelphia provide, it was the same frustrations for Kansas City that dictated the game’s outcome. Penalties, a porous offensive line, and lack of pressure on the quarterback appear to be the depressing, recurring themes of the 2009 Chiefs.

Three areas of the game, all coaching related are worthy of note.

1) Bad Play Calling:

Philadelphia’s defense had six or more players charging the line of scrimmage on nearly every play. With this kind of crowd coming at the line of scrimmage someone has to be coming open in the undermanned Eagle’s secondary. Yet head coach and offensive coordinator Todd Haley sent running back Larry Johnson helplessly into the crowd on almost every first down. This led to a number of third and longs, where Haley always called a draw play to Jamaal Charles. Play calling more predictable than what day of the week tomorrow is. Aside from one trick play that was called on KC’s first scoring drive the Chiefs are disturbingly bland. Where is Haley’s inventiveness? Against this kind of pressure Haley needs to give quarterback Matt Cassel nothing but three step drops, quick release plays, nothing but quick slants and five yard outs all the way down the field and force the Eagles to adapt. Then the run game can open up.

2) Penalties:

In week two Kansas City had nine penalties for 70 yards. Again it’s important to note that the penalty yards do not include the positive yards gained called back. It seems every time the Chiefs had a successful running play it was called back on a holding penalty. Week three saw KC commit 10 penalties for 90 yards. The Chiefs only had 196 yards of total offense! We are undisciplined and again this has to fall on the coach.

3) Swiss Cheese Offensive Line:

It seems unnecessary to mention the poor play of the offensive line as anyone who follows the Chiefs already knows this is the team’s key issue. However, it will be the story of every game of the 2009 season. Cassel has no time, Johnson has no holes, and this unit is the primary culprit for the penalty totals. Once the pride of Kansas City the offensive line makes most want to look away.

Post game analysis will provide little solace for KC faithful as they will be the subject of ridicule. There is little to be done other than getting back to fundamentals. Although throwing on first down would help.

Solomon Wilcotts is an idiot. At the conclusion of the game he said about Haley, “You’ve got to love the way he dialed up plays.” Nothing could be farther from the truth. It’s a commentator who knows little about a team desperately grasping for something positive to say.

Unfortunately, three weeks into the season, even devout fans are struggling to do the same thing.

Kansas City Chiefs vs. Philadelphia Eagles: Three Key Matchups

Russell Fike — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 08:20:12 -0400

Coaches in the NFL don’t care if a win is ugly, a win is a win. Right now the Kansas City Chiefs wouldn’t care if their win resembled a three-eyed mountain goat with a unibrow, but unfortunately the opponents don’t get any easier for KC in the immediate future.

The Philadelphia Eagles have been a mainstay among the NFC elite for the past half dozen seasons, but are amidst some turmoil given key injuries, the offseason loss of their cherished defensive coordinator Jim Johnson who lost his fight with cancer, and the hoopla surrounding the return of quarterback Michael Vick.

Kansas City will look to capitalize by pulling an upset.

Three Key Matchups in Week Three:

1) Larry Johnson vs. 4-3 Defense of the Eagles:

Partially credited to the talent of the Raven’s defense and partially credited to the effectiveness of the 3-4 scheme, Chiefs running back Larry Johnson was held to 20 yards on the ground in Week One. Against the Raiders in Week Two LJ took advantage of a little daylight and earned a hard fought 78 yards. The Ravens are the No. 1 defense in the NFL against the run after two weeks. Kansas City’s defense is improved against the run through two weeks compared to last year. What’s the common thread? Both the Ravens and the Chiefs run a 3-4. Expect LJ to have a decent showing against a strong Eagles defense that shows a 4-3 and allowed 4.6 yards per carry to the New Orleans Saints in Week Two. The Chiefs will remain committed to the run to temper the blitz-heavy Eagles defense and allow quarterback Matt Cassel time.

2) Matt Cassel vs. the Doubters:

Driven highly on speculation the Chief’s quarterback situation has been made muddy by media coverage. On Sept. 22, NFL.com provided the headline “Cassel Will Continue to Start at QB for Chiefs.” On Wednesday’s episode of Around the League on NFL Network, Jason La Canfora added more spice to the curry by citing head coach Todd Haley’s past as proof that he will bench a guy that’s paid more to play a guy with the better chance to win. With the purging of former head coach Herm Edwards’ players from the Chiefs franchise it is odd to imagine that Edwards’ proposed franchise quarterback could shoulder the load. Frankly, Cassel will be, and should be, provided more than one game to show that he is meant to be the leader of this team. Will Cassel persevere against the ball-hawking Eagles D that leads all teams with six interceptions?

3) Michael Vick vs. the World:

Plaxico Burres, Brett Favre, and Michael Vick were the three headliners to the flurry of offseason activity. In Week Three it’s Vick who reclaims the national spotlight by taking his first regular season NFL snaps since his release from prison. Philadelphia quarterback Donovan McNabb didn’t participate in practice this week and Week Two starter Kevin Kolb will likely start against the Chiefs, but fans can expect a lot of Wildcat formations that give Vick a significant role in the offense. The three biggest playmakers on the Eagles, McNabb, running back Brian Westbrook, and wide receiver DeSean Jackson were all inactive in practice this week and in their absence on Sunday the Eagles will call on Michael Vick to be a playmaker. Has Vick shaken off the rust? Has he lost a step? In Vick’s last preseason game he threw one pick and was sacked four times. For a quarterback who has struggled finding his NFL identity perhaps the Wildcat and such does more harm than good.

Chiefs Do Everything Wrong In a Game Where Little Needed To Go Right

Russell Fike — Sun, 20 Sep 2009 16:43:09 -0400

Everything for which the Chiefs could be praised in Week One disappeared in Week Two. Instead of zero turnovers, the Chiefs committed two. Instead of three penalties, the team had nine for a typically Raider-esque 70 yards.

Kansas City has been scrutinized as a team with limited talent. This is arguable, but even the “lesser” teams in the NFL can compete if they are fundamentally sound. Today, the Chiefs were anything but.

How else can a team outgaining their opponent 409 yards to 166 lose the game?

Here are the three areas of the game that interested me most. Strangely, they aren’t all bad. We’ll get the bad out of the way first.

Poor Game Management:

Kansas City blew the opportunity for points at the end of the second quarter. With 18 seconds left and no timeouts with the ball inside Oakland's 20-yard-line, the Chiefs threw a two-yard pass to running back Dantrell Savage who was tackled inbounds to end the half.

There is something to be said for how the Chiefs continually shot themselves in the foot with foolish penalties on offense. Mind you a few of the calls were highly questionable, but I am not about making that the focus of a game which was lost by a team that failed to execute when needed.

Larry Johnson Ran with Tenacity:

LJ hasn’t shown that kind of controlled intensity for nearly two years now. With a refusal to go down, Johnson showed great awareness in finding the yardage needed to reach the first down marker. The weight he lost in the offseason is paying dividends in his improved change of direction, and stop-and-start ability. Several times Johnson came to a complete stop, shoved the defender off with his free arm, and headed up field.

Matt Cassel’s Pocket Awareness:

Anyone who saw the game grew frustrated at the mention of Richard Seymour’s position prior to every Chief’s offensive snap. We get it. He’s a good player, a good player who only had two tackles and no sacks.

In fact, the Raiders only had two sacks, the same number as the anemic Chief’s pass rush. Many may look at the box score and complain that Brodie Croyle had a better game in Week One than Cassel had in his first regular season start as a Chief. It was Cassel’s abilities to move out of the pocket when it collapsed, run up field when needed, but mostly to buy his receivers time and improvise that impressed me. It’s this kind of ability that has made quarterbacks like Ben Roethlisberger so successful in the NFL.

*Additional Notes

Bobby Wade made an immediate impact playing at wide receiver after being signed earlier this week. Wade was fully immersed in the KC offense leading the Chiefs with six catches for 72 yards.

It was great to have cornerback Brandon Flowers back. He made several great plays, but also appears to be shaking off a little rust as he missed a clean interception that would have

What’s most concerning is that a team that continually fails to win close games is in danger of never developing a “winning mentality.” Larry Johnson has voiced a desire to be a leader for this young team, and if he continues to run with the attitude he showed today, it may prove contagious for a team that needs some killer instinct. Controlled intensity: it’s in demand.

Kansas City Chiefs vs. Oakland Radiers: Three Key Matchups

Russell Fike — Sat, 19 Sep 2009 14:51:20 -0400

Kansas City Chiefs vs. Oakland Raiders

Week Two Key Matchups

Chief’s 3-4 Defense vs. Oakland’s Three-Headed Monster:

Outside of the extreme (i.e. Adrian Peterson), NFL teams are shifting to a multi-back approach. With complimentary skill sets, Oakland’s dynamic trio of running backs will be a strong test for the Chief’s newly implemented 3-4 defense.

Darren McFadden is an explosive former top-five pick with great receiving ability, Michael Bush a bruiser, and Justin Fargas an Al Davis guy who hits the hole quickly. This tireless rotation could be a problem for a Chief’s defense that ranks 31st in the NFL after week one in rushing yards allowed.

The Chiefs may leave themselves vulnerable in the passing game by committing to run blitzes that shoot the gaps and rely on inside linebackers making plays in the backfield. KC’s outside linebackers will be responsible for containment on stretch and sweep plays as well as covering passes out of the backfield.

If the linebackers drop into zone do the newly converted linebackers like former defensive end Tamba Hali have the closing speed to close on players like McFadden running to the edges or catching out of the backfield?

Kansas City Return Game vs. Oakland Special Teams:

Raider’s owner Al Davis has long put a premium on acquiring elite special teams players. Arguably the NFL’s all-time greatest punter, Ray Guy, was an Oakland Raider. Oakland’s current punter/kicker tandem was paired in 2000 when Davis spent a first-round draft pick on current strong-leg kicker Sebastian Janikowski and a fifth round pick on four time pro bowl punter Shane Lechler.

In a game that could likely see both offenses struggling for much of the game field position and field goals could decide the outcome. The return game is a problem unresolved by Kansas City as they evaluated different players through the preseason and week one.

However, with the signing of wide receiver Bobby Wade in the past week the Chiefs may have a formidable return man. Chiefs head coach Todd Haley insists Wade will only play if he can be utilized in the offense, but after watching returners on a number of NFL teams be unable to field kicks a savvy, sure-handed return man is appealing.

If you’re not a threat every time you touch the ball as a return man, you better be able to hold onto the ball.

Dwayne Bowe vs. Nnamdi Asomugha:

A descendant of the Nigerian Igbo tribe, Nnamdi Asomugha also has a monstrous new contract with the Raiders and is regarded as one of the best corners in the NFL. Kansas City’s talented receiver Dwayne Bowe continues to climb the ranks of NFL receivers and is on the cusp of being anointed an elite player.

Bowe had a functional, but not electric week one as he put up 40 yards and a touchdown on four catches. Enough to satiate the demands of fantasy owners, but Bowe is capable of more gaudy numbers and will have explosive weeks, but this may not be one of them.

The Raiders and their affinity for man coverage will probably have Asomugha shadow Bowe the entire game. Asomugha is atypically tall for a corner at 6’2, which makes him and Bowe the same height. Bowe’s involvement in the passing game will be catches for short yardage and potential for yards after the catch.

Bobby Wade: Chiefs Hoping For a Return On The Investment

Russell Fike — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 19:40:50 -0400

“Where everybody knows your name” doesn’t apply to the Chiefs right now. With all of the changes surrounding the 2009 Kansas City Chiefs a familiar face is a rarity.

Recent signee wide receiver Bobby Wade entered the league in 2003 as a fifth round pick of the Chicago Bears, where current Kansas City head coach Todd Haley was then a receivers coach. Now in his eighth season at the age of 28, Wade will again play under Haley.

Wade is one of a parade of veteran free agent receivers to march through Kansas City this year. Also drafted by the Chicago Bears, but in 1996, the 36 year old Bobby Engram is the only recent acquisition to remain on the roster.

Fallen by the wayside include the New York Giant’s all-time yardage leader Amani Toomer, and former first round draft pick Ashley Lelie. Both were cut after preseason appearances in the red and gold.

What differentiates Wade from other free agents doing brief guest spots on the Chiefs team is his ability to return kicks. Wade has fielded at least one punt in five of his eight seasons and returned 50 kickoffs in 2006 for a 23.9 average in Tennessee.

Haley has said that Wade will only play this week if he can be an asset in multiple facets of the game. Meaning that Wade will have to prove he’s ready to run some routes if fans are to see him fielding punts at Arrowhead this Sunday.

True, Wade’s statistics in the return game are not flashy. However, he never returned more than 33 punts in a season. When he did so in 2005 he did return a punt 73 yards for a touchdown.

However, if the Chiefs get a good eight to ten yard return average this will suffice and be a significant upgrade for Kansas City who has struggled to find a worthy punt returner.

The flashiest return men do not sport long careers. Former Chief’s X-factor Dante Hall is no longer in the league. Devin Hester only returns kicks in a pinch and had no touchdowns in 2008 while only boasting a 6.2 yard return average on punts.

Who remembers these guys for more than a season or two of greatness? Tim Dwight, Desmond Howard? The truly great returners are needed to help their team elsewhere just as Haley has said of Wade coming to the Chiefs.

Wade is in fact coming off of back to back seasons with over 50 receptions, and career highs in yardage.

Every team would like a return man who can break a game open, but most importantly is the ability to protect the ball and field it cleanly. Corner back Maurice Leggett muffed a punt against the Ravens in week 1 and while he didn’t repeat the mistake he certainly didn’t show anything exciting.

A team that has the punt returner thing figured out is Green Bay. Jordy Nelson is a sure-handed receiver who isn’t likely to drop the ball and has the wherewithal to pick up some return yards when the potential is there.

When the Chiefs brought in former return star Eddie Drummond fans saw an athlete preoccupied with his former greatness who didn’t do the best thing for the team, limit mistakes.

It might be anticlimactic, but I will cheer when Bobby Wade raises that hand above his head and securely fields that fair catch as the defenders crowd the halo around him.

Floyd Mayweather: Securing a Legacy

Russell Fike — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 18:45:35 -0400

I once had a boxing journalist tell me that the sport only has to storylines.

1. The newcomer looking to climb the ranks and emerge as the greatest by defeating all od the established knowns.

2. The dethroned veteran looking to reclaim lost glory. This is exemplified by George Foreman’s return to the ring after a two year hiatus in an attempt to reclaim his title after a loss to Muhammad Ali.

Could it be possible that Floyd Mayweather Jr. will complete both storylines without ever losing a fight?

Beneath the thug mentality that Mayweather portrays publicly there may be a career mastermind at work. The wheels turn and click to create a more memorable storyline and solidify a legacy.

Mayweather was once the newcomer who rose to prominence and beat storied fighters who were crowd favorite, particularly true of the match with Golden Boy Oscar De La Hoya.

Now two years removed from the sport of boxing Mayweather again claims the stage as a return to the sport is chronicled on HBO and his time away opens the door to discussing him as both a favorite and an underdog.

De La Hoya has said publicly that he believes Juan Manuel Marquez is the precise type of fighter to take down Mayweather. Much in the same way that Joe Frazier was the matchup to challenge Ali, De La Hoya has gone so fare as to call the fight a Marquez victory before either fighter steps in the ring.

Mayweather is renowned as one of the best defensive fighters of all time (Willie Pep anyone?), but De La Hoya insists that beyond the three punch combinations Mayweather starts to stumble and could fall to five or six punch combinations by Marquez.

Mayweather ascended to boxing greatness and after a Michael Jordan and Brett Favre like retirement will attempt a return to greatness against Marquez.

Matt Cassel's Injury Recovery: A Rebuttal to Stating the Obvious

Russell Fike — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 03:40:11 -0400

The sky is blue, grass is green, and Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Matt Cassel’s injured leg looks better today than it did last week.

Of course his leg looks better. You know what heals injuries? Time does.

Headlines tease fans informing us “Cassel Could Start,” only to discover an article that tells us, “He Could Not.”

We have an entire article devoted to stating the obvious. Cassel is hurt, Cassel is healing, and Cassel will play when he’s healthy. That’s the writer’s notes. What does head coach Todd Haley have to say? “I haven't talked to the doctors. But to my eye, he was improved some from last week.”

A sports injury does not spread like cancer, it heals like a scab. The healing is observable without medical instruments and the improved condition of Cassel comes as no surprise.

What would be nice is to know if he indeed will start, but for the second consecutive week fans are tormented with ambiguous articles featuring vague statements that leaves readers with only Cassel’s status as “questionable,” to appease our inquisitiveness.

Now these weekly updates of predictable healing doesn’t bother me as much as the incessant need to repeat the terms of Cassel’s new contract every time his injury is mentioned.

We get it! The Chiefs paid a lot of money and now the guy is hurt. It’s not the ideal situation, but fans learn to accept it and move on. Allow us to move on!

It’s wise to lock up big time talent and injuries cannot be predicted. It’s not like the Chiefs did anything wrong in this instance, so stop reminding us of just how unfortunate the situation is.

Forbid any player face a similar demise, but players like Gale Sayers, or Terrell Davis are certainly Hall of Fame caliber football players, whose careers were cut short by injury. Yet no team would hesitate to lock either up in a big contract as they hit their prime.

The subtle jabs over wasted money are gratuitous and Chiefs fans will not buy into the notion of spilt milk. With the team and the organization undergoing a reformation the true fan will not wilt under the “shame” of matters outside of anyone’s control.

It’s not like general manager Scott Pioli took a crowbar to Cassel’s knee a la Tonya Harding and Nancy Kerrigan (I apologize for a figure skating reference in a football article, but a part of me feels Lynn Swann might be proud...even if ballet and figure skating aren’t quite the same).

No, Pioli did everything right, and the Chiefs are going about this the right way. This is a team positioning itself to be highly competitive and win some games.

The slight of infusing criticism into insufficient and predictable injury updates is tiresome and uncalled for.

Kansas City Chiefs: Resilient Losers Begin to Form a Winning Identity

Russell Fike — Sun, 13 Sep 2009 22:19:29 -0400

Commentators had very little positive to say about the Kansas City Chiefs prior to their matchup with the Baltimore Ravens, but after a hard fought game, which the Chiefs were in until the end, people may have to rethink what to expect of this team.

Despite losing to Baltimore 38-24, Kansas City established some identity as a resilient team with grit and a competitive drive.

Many believe that coaches in the NFL must take a “hands off” approach as professional athletes are defiant in regards to being teachable. Head coach Todd Haley has been criticized at times for his hard-nosed approach to coaching, but he has molded a unit that will remain competitive despite lacking depth and extensive talent.

How does a team with limited talent win games? The answer: discipline, eliminating mistakes and big plays on special teams. Week One saw all three of these things happen for Kansas City.

The Chiefs had only three penalties for 15 yards and didn’t commit a turnover against a ball-hawking, physical defense in the Ravens.

With some apprehension regarding a rookie kicker in Ryan Succop and punter Dustin Colquit coming off of injury, the kicking game appears to be a strong point for Kansas City. Succop hit a 53-yard field goal in a windy stadium. Despite shanking one punt Colquit averaged almost 50 yards per punt, including pushing the Ravens offense inside their own 20 twice.

The special teams’ performance was topped with a blocked punt by safety Jon McGraw who also recovered the ball in the end zone for a touchdown and Kansas City’s first points of the season.

A few other things jump out from the Chiefs' first game:

1) Todd Haley was not nearly as pass-happy as many expected. Kansas City’s offense looked like it was still under the regime of former head coach Herm Edwards as they consistently ran the ball on first down in the first three quarters. When the playbook opened up in the fourth quarter, the Chiefs finally found success with a scoring drive that went 80 yards, primarily through the air. They threw on every first down and the drive preceding had a 50-yard pass that set up Succop’s long field goal.

2) Backup quarterback Brodie Croyle played well. Croyle complete 16 of 24 throws for 177 yards and two touchdowns with no turnovers. He did face pressure as he was sacked three times on limited pass attempts, but this was an uplifting performance for fans who watched the offense struggle all preseason. In the highly unfortunate circumstance that starter Matt Cassel underperforms, Croyle is a suitable alternative.

3) Veteran additions made an immediate impact. Safety Mike Brown and outside line backer Mike Vrabel were two of the team’s three leading tacklers and were involved in a number of key plays. In addition to the statistics, both bring a leadership quality and an attitude that contributes to playmaking.

The Chiefs will benefit greatly from the return of injured cornerback Brandon Flowers as his replacement, Maurice Leggett, was picked on all day by Ravens' quarterback Joe Flacco.

Leggett did defend the deep ball well, twice breaking up potential big gains with excellent one-on-one coverage, but he gave receivers a huge cushion all game. All that, along with a lack of a consistent pass rush, allowed Flacco his first NFL game with over 300 yards passing.

Most importantly, viewers of this game saw a team carving an identity common to winning programs. Despite a dormant first-half offense, this team found a way to stay in the game. Great teams win games even when the victory isn’t pretty. Eight of Kansas City’s losses a year ago were by seven points or less.

Haley is instilling a mentality that will cause a few more of those games to fall the way of the Chiefs.

The Glass Half Full: An Optimists Look at Week 1 For Kansas City

Russell Fike — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 18:23:54 -0400

“Hope is definitely not the same thing as optimism. It is not the conviction that something will turn out well, but the certainty that something makes sense, regardless of how it turns out.”

-Former Czechoslovakian President Vaclav Havel.

After any game there are obvious things to point to that clearly illustrate why the game’s outcome makes sense.

Chiefs fans must endure commentators' incessant predictions that a Ravens’ victory opening week “makes sense.” However, there are reasons why a Chiefs' win is possible as well.

More importantly, there is reason for a Chiefs fan to possess (what many consider misplaced) optimism.

As painful as it may be, a fan must maintain some semblance of optimism. It’s an emotional investment in a team that can transcend the monstrous paychecks of the NFL and helps inspire a team to fight with a competitive drive that makes fans proud.

“Few things in the world are more powerful than a positive push. A smile. A world of optimism and hope. A "you can do it" when things are tough.”

-Author and businessman Richard M. Devos.

This article is by no means a prediction that the Kansas City Chiefs will emerge victorious in week one. Rather, this is a declaration that such an outcome is not an impossibility.

To the rebellious, loyal Chiefs fan, behold!

With so much attention being paid to the dilapidated offensive line, the injury to starting quarterback Matt Cassel, and the inability to get into the end zone, it is easy to overlook the improvements the team has made on defense.

The transition to the 3-4 defense already shows benefits. The run defense has been stout.

The team totals for Chiefs' opponents in the preseason for rushing yards are as follows:

Texans 107 yards, 3.6 avg. Vikings 93 yards, 3.4 avg. Seahawks 112 yards, 2.9 avg. Rams 76 yards, 2.4 avg.

With an all time NFL low of 10 sacks last season, the defense showed a more impressive pass rush blitzing out of the 3-4 this preseason.

In four games of “vanilla” defense, the Chiefs accumulated seven sacks. This would put the team on pace for 28 sacks in a 16-game season. Hardly monstrous, but it moves them from 32nd ranked to tied for the 22 spot among team sack totals.

Cornerback Brandon Flowers and safety DaJuan Morgan add an interception apiece to the defensive stats.

What does any of this matter?

The Baltimore Ravens are a rushing team. Former Rutgers stand out running back Ray Rice is expected to have a breakout season, beginning with a monstrous game against the Chiefs. Rice splits carries with last year’s starter Willis McGahee and with bruising fullback Le’ron McClain getting a few touches as well.

Should the Chiefs be able to stifle the run early, they will have a chance to win this game.

Why?

Quite simply, Joe Flacco is not a great quarterback. Not to say he won’t be, but 14 touchdowns to 12 interceptions while throwing for under 3,000 yards are not scary numbers.

If the running game is held in check and Baltimore forced into 2nd- and 3rd-and-long, then the blitz packages should rattle the young quarterback and force some bad decisions and stir up some key turnovers.

The struggles of the Kansas City offense are impossible to ignore. However, the team has shown competency in moving the ball, but have simply been unable to go in for six.

Head coach and offensive coordinator Todd Haley will find a few red zone plays catered to this matchup.

Should the team be able to force some key turnovers on the Ravens' side of the field and capitalize, an upset could be in the works.

If the Chiefs do pull a week one upset, these are a few likely reasons that the outcome would “make sense.”

Righting The Ship: Norman And Walker Can Fill Key Holes On O-Line

Russell Fike — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 02:35:40 -0400

If a ship’s sinking it’s probably because of a hole in the hull.

It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to realize that if there’s a hole in the ship, you plug it.

If there’s a hole in the offensive line, you fill it.

There is some relative stability on the left side of the Chief’s offensive line with second year player Branden Albert playing tackle beside a familiar face to the Pro Bowl in guard Brian Waters.

However, anyone watching Kansas City preseason games has seen the right side of our line overpowered through the middle and run around on the outside.

Starting right tackle Damion McIntosh was cut by the Chiefs when they named their 53 man roster.

His inability to kick his leg out and move with the snap of the ball to seal the edge rusher off and create a pocket led to multiple quarterback sacks.

The new man listed as starter at right tackle is Ikechuku Ndukwe, acquired via a trade with the Miami Dolphins.

The Chiefs will be Ndukwe’s fifth team since entering the league in 2005, but he has also started 15 of the 21 games he’s played.

Playing guard for much of his career, there will be a transition to tackle, but the Northwestern education he received implies he may have the mental capacity to pick up the new position swiftly.

Veteran Mike Goff, who spent recent seasons with the Chargers is facing the effects of age at 33, but can fill in at right guard in the short term.

Center Rudy Niswanger returns to the starting lineup after replacing Casey Wiegman last year, but he hasn’t proven the anchor one hopes for in a center.

There was limited potential for immediate improvement after the Saturday cuts to reduce rosters to 53.

Of greatest interest was Tony Pashos, a starting tackle for the Jaguars a year ago who was moved inside to guard and was released after refusing to renegotiate his contract.

However, just recently additional cuts were made by the Jaguars and Bills that provide more intrigue.

The Buffalo Bills parted ways with 30 year old Langston Walker.

The Bill’s starting right tackle of a year ago was expected to start at left tackle with the trade of two-time Pro Bowler Jason Peters to the Philadelphia Eagles.

Walker’s release seems rather abrupt and could provide immediate improvement on the offensive line for the Chiefs.

At 30 years of age he is not a long term solution, and is not the temporary force that Willie Roaf provided a few years back, but Walker can be an asset.

The Jaguars parted ways with Dennis Norman a guard/center who has 24 starts in 64 games split between the Seattle Seahawks, and most recently the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Dennis Norman is a Princeton grad, which appeals in terms of character and ability to handle a steep learning curve.

Norman, who is 29, started 14 games last year and could provide competition for Niswanger at center, Goff at guard, or provide a strong backup should some offensive line rotation be required.

There may be too many holes to fill, but the Chiefs still have a chance to right the ship, keep their quarterbacks upright, and take on water a little more slowly.

Kansas City Chiefs in the Dark After Winless Preseason: What Can a Fan Look To?

Russell Fike — Sat, 05 Sep 2009 04:33:57 -0400

There’s a light at the end of the tunnel, but it’s a long, dark tunnel.

Preseason records hardly provide a Nostradamus like prediction of a team’s potential success in the regular season. However, the performance of a team in preseason contests, regardless of final scores, reveals a lot about that team’s talent as well as its character.

Finding the positives in a winless preseason is a little like looking for a needle in a haystack. It’s not easy to find, but by golly you hope it’s actually there. For the Kansas City Chiefs the most positive thing appears to be that there’s room for growth.

To call a 17-9 loss a disappointing team performance is an understatement and there are a number of reasons the Chiefs were unable to get into the end zone in their final preseason matchup with the St. Louis Rams.

The miscues, shortcoming, and weaknesses of this team are pretty obvious to anyone glancing at the box score. Quarterback Tyler Thigpen throws as many completions as he does interceptions (two).

A touchdown is called back due to a holding penalty. No Chief’s quarterback completes more than 50 percent of his passes. Kansas City converts only 3 of 16, third down conversions and the list continues.

This game was not the outing head coach Todd Haley was looking for in his first game since assuming the play calling duties as offensive coordinator after the release of Chan Gailey.

Now let’s sift through that haystack.

Running backs Larry Johnson and Dantrell Savage both tallied gaudy amounts of yards on the ground on limited carries. However, this is largely attributed to each breaking a long run. Johnson hit an open hole for 41 yards, and Savage broke a number of tackles before breaking free down the sideline for 70.

If we remove these runs from their stats, Savage averages 1 yard per carry with LJ averaging 3.4. With this analysis it is Jackie Battle who had the best day among the three backs. Battle’s 28 yards on eight carries comes out to 3.5 yards per carry. Not excellent, but the best of the three.

A counterpoint is that any 2,000 yard rushing season was sprinkled with long runs and NFL teams covet breakaway speed and stick to the run game in hopes of having such runs. So Savage and Johnson are not to be discredited, but the inconsistency is concerning.

The most encouraging thing about the yards racked up in the run game are the key blocks that helped to break them. Haley has taken a very stiff-necked approach with his insistence that wide receivers be active in blocking.

It is often true that good blocking on the outside is what creates long runs. Mark Bradley laid a vicious block on Savage's tear. Also encouraging was the interior blocking of fullback Mike Cox who sealed the hole for Johnson on his rumble.

Defensively there is much to be optimistic about. The Chiefs' run game, even with the long runs removed, still looks better than the Rams' 2.4 yards per rush average. The effectiveness of the 3-4 defense must be noted. It must also be noted that Ram’s star running back Steven Jackson did not have a single carry.

In addition to keeping the Ram run game in check, the Chief’s defense totaled 3 sacks. Not bad for a team that set an NFL single-season record for fewest sacks in a season with 10 in all of the 2008 season.

Former first round pick and converted defensive end Tamba Hali recorded his first sack in his new position as a 3-4 outside linebacker. Preseason standout middle linebacker Corey Mays continued to make an argument to take the field as one of the Chief’s two starting middle linebackers recording a sack of his own.

Finally, it’s hard times for a team when the kicking game is pointed to as a positive. Rookie kicker Ryan Succop rebounded from a one for three performance against the Seattle Seahawks to go three for three in scoring all nine on Kansas City’s points versus the Rams.

What does any of this mean?

Haley must stay committed to the run game. This team does not have the down-the-field talent to summon the passing game for monster performances.

The 3-4 defense should create some nice pressure on the quarterback and fill holes in the run game well. However, teams will be much less vanilla in their play calling come regular season. Over aggressiveness was the downfall of former defensive coordinator Gunther Cunningham’s game planning.

For years, the Denver Broncos beat the Chiefs on play action bootlegs, and by tailbacks exploiting cutback lanes. With the profusion of blitzes common to the 3-4 there is some concern that players may not adjust when they need to react and not simply execute.

Lastly, the team will need its kicker as Kansas City has struggle in the red zone. The Chiefs will continue to phase in large bodies like Ashley Lelie as an end zone target, but the offensive line is losing the battle in the trenches when it matters the most. With a chance to beat the Houston Texans, Kansas City was handed a full set of downs at the Houston one-yard line and were unable to get the touchdown for the win.

So while a total turnaround from a 2-14 season ala the Miami Dolphins improvement from 1-15 to 11-5 with a playoff appearance is unlikely there are rays of hope for the loyal fan to eye.

Scott Pioli Gives Todd Haley New Tools...Anquan Boldin a Chief?

Russell Fike — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 02:05:34 -0400

Trade rumors elicit similar sentiments to smoke-filled backroom politics. Both may have only a fraction of truth, but like a brutal train wreck, it’s nearly impossible to look away.

The train wreck that has been the Kansas City Chiefs, without a playoff victory since 1994 and coming off a 2-14 record last season, may draw even more shocked gazes in the upcoming week.

Trades themselves are fairly uncommon in the NFL, and multi-team deals are nearly unheard of. However, in a three-team trade more akin to an NBA deal, the Denver Broncos, Arizona Cardinals, and Kansas City Chiefs are primed to send shockwaves through the NFL.

Today on the Petros and Money Show on KLAC-AM (AM 570), the duo referenced sources including scout.com and our very own bleacherreport.com regarding a three-team trade.

The trade in question would send Matt Leinart to the quarterback-deprived Broncos in exchange for discontented, nearly hostile Pro Bowl receiver Brandon Marshall and deliver iron man receiver Anquan Boldin to the Chiefs.

Not only does this change the rosters of the three teams involved, but it also leaves fantasy owners scrambling to make the appropriate adjustments. Information currently available did not disclose what the Chiefs would have to give up to acquire Boldin, but future draft picks have been thrown around as a possibility.

Kansas City head coach Todd Haley, last year’s offensive coordinator for the Arizona Cardinals, would be delighted to obtain one of “his guys.” Admittedly, such a monster deal appears surprising so close to the start of the season, but the Chiefs appear to be anything but stable, and a trade of this magnitude is not an impossibility.

Within the past week, Kansas City lost their starting quarterback to injury for two to four weeks and fired offensive coordinator Chan Gailey. With head coach Haley now assuming the play calling duties on offense, a change to the team’s roster would simply be another ingredient in this already shaken drink.

Chiefs upper management may also provide encouragement for fans that Boldin may be suiting up in a slightly different shade of red.

New Chiefs general manager Scott Pioli is regarded as a bit of a wizard for his work in New England and prior. A trade for both quarterback Matt Cassel and linebacker Mike Vrabel for only a second round pick acted to further reinforce this notion. Perhaps there is more Pioli magic to be performed prior to the regular season kickoff.

Should the trade come to fruition, Lance Burton may have some stiff competition for magician of the year.

Pioli, Haley, and Kansas City Debate Who Goes Where

Russell Fike — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 03:05:12 -0400

The average fan finds the preseason to be utterly meaningless. For a handful of athletes in the camp of every NFL team the preseason is the stage for a ferocious, intense battle. Rookies, veteran journeymen, and the occasional local-hero walk on are in the fight for roster spots.

Kansas City has several position battles playing out in the final two weeks of the preseason. This article will provide three points of examination to help Kansas City fans enjoy the remainder of the preseason.

Now there are two kinds of position battles. One is the struggle to simply make the roster. Most of these guys have to make plays in special teams while also showing the ability to fill in on either side of the ball should catastrophe strike any starters. Second, are the players lobbying for a higher spot on the depth chart.

What’s great about the preseason is that fans can choose what storylines they want to follow. Beyond who wins or loses, a devoted fan has a “choose your own adventure novel” of stories to look out for. This is just a few of them.

Examination I: Players who are fun to watch in the preseason, are likely to make the team, and you’ll be proud to recognize for the few plays a game he takes the field.

Defensive End/Outside Linebacker Andy Studebaker played very strong football against the Texans in week one of the preseason, but was largely inactive against the Vikings in game two due to a minor injury.

The transition to the 3-4 defense in Kansas City opens doors for players built like the 6-3, 248 pound Studebaker to fill one of the extra linebacker spots and the coaching staff likes the guy.

Middle Linebacker Corey Mays has had a lot of time with the first team defense in the absence of NFL dinosaur and tackle machine Zach Thomas. Thomas is part of the Pioli influx of veterans.

Thomas is a seven-time pro-bowler, but is on the downside of his career. The emergence of Mays allows for a nice rotation to pair with Derrick Johnson as the Middle Line Backing duo in the 3-4.

Examination 2: Which one makes the cut?

Does quarterback Tyler Thigpen still have a home on this team? Thigpen had a touchdown in the Chiefs preseason opener, but didn’t take a single snap against the Vikings in game two.

Instead, presumptive Chiefs’ starting quarterback, Matt Cassel’s backup in New England, Matt Gutierrez took duty as the Chief’s No. 3 quarterback. Is Thigpen, last year’s starter, simply trusted to be talented enough to step in if needed, or, does Coastal Carolina’s only NFL athlete have his days numbered?

Is there room on the team for both Running Backs Jackie Battle and Dantrell Savage? Both were signed by the Chiefs as undrafted free agents. Battle came out of Houston and got a contract in 2007. Savage came out of Oklahoma State and signed in 2008. Kansas City fans may remember Battle for having a touchdown on his first NFL carry, but his potential appears limited.

Savage has evolved more as a player. Initially showing an upright, lanky running style that is prone to injury and fumbles, Savage has shown better tendencies this preseason. Besides, how can you not like the name Savage for a football player?

Examination 3: Who is the starter?

What’s the order of the Chiefs’ Wide Receiver hierarchy? In terms of talent, Dwayne Bowe is the indisputable No. 1 receiver, but Head Coach Todd Haley has questioned Bowe’s work ethic, the reliability of his hands, and most of all his unwillingness to block in the run game.

As a result Haley demoted Bowe to the number three receiver spot. Against the Texans Bowe was active in aiding the run game and by season start he will be catching the majority of Cassel’s passes.

The Chiefs’ No. 2 receiver job is up for grabs. A number of veterans could emerge. Last year’s No. 2 receiver Mark Bradley should vie for significant playing time. As will recent veteran acquisitions Amani Toomer, the Giants’ all time leader in yardage, and journeyman Bobby Engram, who had some strong years with the Seattle Seahawks.

Finally, the Chiefs signed former Denver Bronco and Hawaii Rainbow Warrior jump-ball specialist Ashley Lelie prior to the Vikings game and he may become a key red zone option in the absence of former Chiefs Pro Bowl Tight End Tony Gonzalez.

Finally, rookie Quinten Lawrence, a sixth round draft pick out of McNeese State, has shown promise and is likely to make the team.

The rotation of this mixed bag, and the distribution of snaps and looks, is anyone’s guess at this stage of the game. In fact Haley’s background as a Wide Receiver coach leaves the possibility of incorporating all these talents a very real possibility.

Fans will have the opportunity to choose favorites in this horse race.

Lastly, Right Tackle Barry Richardson is strongly challenging incumbent starter Damion McIntosh to line up with the first team offense. Richardson, last year’s sixth round pick out of Clemson is a youngster challenging the aging McIntosh.

The team was quick to demote McIntosh to Right Tackle with the emergence of Branden Albert at the Left Tackle spot and it’s very possible he will continue to slide down the depth chart. The question remains though, is Richardson truly a better option?