The Kansas City Chiefs will open the 2017 season visiting the Super Bowl champion New England Patriots. While intimidating, it is still a game the Chiefs can win. Not only can they, but they need to in order to make the statement John Dorsey and Andy Reid first set out to make in 2013.
The Kansas City Chiefs and the New England Patriots: Getting Past a Juggernaut
The 2015 season ended with a tough loss in New England. Many hoped that 2016 would have a rematch between the Chiefs and the Patriots. However, a tough loss at home to the Pittsburgh Steelers ended that season for Kansas City. This next season kicks off what is one of the toughest schedules in the NFL. No game is more tough than the opener in New England, where a stacked Patriots roster seeks to dominate.
Kansas City is historically good after bye weeks under Andy Reid and co. While this isn’t technically a bye week, the Chiefs have practically all off-season to prepare for New England. They can get away with that because they also have an extra three days, as the opener is a Thursday Night game.
Why the Chiefs Need a Good Offensive Game
In order to keep up with a punishing Tom Brady attack, the Chiefs will need to put points on the board. Alex Smith, entering what could be his last season as a Chief, will need to establish he still has good football left in him. While he no longer has wide receiver Jeremy Maclin, he maintains a young and talented receiver corps. Tight end Travis Kelce is also an anchor for the pass game, and rookie Kareem Hunt looks to make a strong debut.
Tyreek Hill also seeks to make a bigger impact in the Chiefs Offense. With a strong rookie year, Hill has shown speed and ball skills that can make him a deep threat the Chiefs will need long term. The Chiefs have the building blocks for a potent and violent offense. With speedster Tyreek Hill, strongman Travis Kelce, and a strong showing from Kareem Hunt, as well as production from Spencer Ware, the Chiefs can showcase a dynamic offense.
Defense is the Key to Staying in the Game
The Chiefs had weak production from their pass rush last season, and struggled to contain the run. They need to show early on that they are back to form in the pass rush, and put pressure on Brady. While Brady doesn’t make many mistakes, he can be shaken by increased production from Dee Ford, and a return of Justin Houston.
The secondary is also young and talented, with a strong year by “Dirty Dan” Sorenson, another big year by Marcus Peters, and signs of hope for other young cornerbacks. Eric Berry, often referred to as the anchor of the defense, can lead the unit to victory.
Conclusion
The Chiefs can win this game. In doing so, they make the statement that not only are they big kids on the block, but even the Patriots are vulnerable. Like going into a bar and punching the biggest guy in the room to establish alpha-male dominance, the Chiefs risk getting obliterated. However, there still exists a sliver of hope that Andy Reid and company can show up and make a statement the NFL cant hide from.
