Chiefs’ Top Three Challenges Against Bills in Week 9 Matchup
The Kansas City Chiefs are set to face the Buffalo Bills in Week 9, bringing a 5-3 record into this pivotal matchup. After their recent victory over the Washington Commanders, the Chiefs hope to build on their current momentum.
Chiefs’ Key Challenges Against the Bills
In their upcoming game, the Chiefs must address three major challenges to secure a victory against the Bills.
1. Running Game Effectiveness
One of the primary concerns for Kansas City is how effectively they can run the ball against Buffalo’s defense. The Bills rank 28th in defensive expected points added when stopping the run, while their success rate stands at 24th in the league. Buffalo also allows an alarming 5.5 yards per carry, notably struggling against explosive runs.
- DaQuan Jones is sidelined, which impacts Buffalo’s defensive strength.
- Buffalo’s linebackers, such as Terrell Bernard and Dorian Williams, are more suited for coverage than stopping runs.
Kansas City’s running game is efficient but lacks explosiveness. With Isiah Pacheco out, backup running back Kareem Hunt will be relied upon. While he can gain 3 to 4 yards consistently, breaking through for larger gains will be a challenge.
2. Performance of Defensive Tackles
On the defensive side, the Chiefs must evaluate their tackles against the Bills’ formidable offensive line. Historically, Kansas City’s defensive tackles, including Derrick Nnadi and Jerry Tillery, have been overpowered in past encounters.
- Buffalo’s offensive line excels at executing double teams.
- Quarterback Josh Allen adds a unique dynamic to the running game.
If the Chiefs’ tackles cannot hold their ground, it could lead to significant yardage for Buffalo, especially from running back James Cook and quarterback Allen.
3. Importance of Safety Tackles
Another critical challenge for Kansas City lies with their safeties. Should the defensive tackles struggle to nullify blocks, the secondary will be tested significantly. The safeties must step up to prevent 8-to-10-yard gains from turning into substantial runs.
- Bryan Cook, Chamarri Conner, and Jaden Hicks will be crucial in this regard.
- Success in tackling could swing the game in Kansas City’s favor.
The Chiefs aim to limit Buffalo’s running game, as any explosive plays could dramatically shift momentum. With defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo strategizing, the key will be to minimize big runs and force punting situations.
A successful performance addressing these three challenges could lead Kansas City to victory in a tightly contested battle against the Bills.
