Chiefs Struggle Defensively as Texans Arrive Due to Key Missing Element
The Kansas City Chiefs are facing a significant challenge as they prepare for their upcoming matchup against the Houston Texans. One critical issue has been their struggle on the defensive front, particularly in generating a pass rush.
Defensive Struggles Highlighted by Chris Jones
Defensive end Chris Jones recently addressed his performance and that of his unit after a disappointing loss on Thanksgiving against the Dallas Cowboys. “I could have affected the quarterback more as a line unit,” Jones stated, accepting responsibility for the Chiefs’ challenges in pressuring opposing quarterbacks.
Alongside Jones is his fellow defensive end George Karlaftis, who leads the team with five sacks. However, the team as a whole has recorded only 22 sacks this season, ranking them 27th in the NFL. The last time the Chiefs secured a sack was during a Week 11 contest against the Denver Broncos.
Concerns Leading Up to the Texans Game
The Chiefs will face Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud on Sunday Night Football, and placing consistent pressure on him will be crucial. “He’s definitely a tough quarterback to play against,” Jones remarked about Stroud, emphasizing the need to improve their defensive effectiveness.
Blitzing Ineffectiveness
Despite blitzing at one of the league’s highest rates (31.4%), the Chiefs are not achieving the same success as last season, when they averaged additional half-sack per game. This has raised concerns about their current strategy. Defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo noted that a combination of rush and coverage needs to improve for the team to see better results.
Key Players to Watch
- Chiefs Player: RB Kareem Hunt
- Hunt has consistently contributed in recent games, with carries totaling 11, 13, 11, 30, and 14.
- Expect him to continue this trend, aiding the Chiefs against the Texans’ formidable defense.
- Texans Player: WR Jayden Higgins
- Higgins has made a notable impact, with 18 receptions during Houston’s current four-game winning streak.
- His size (6-foot-4) gives him an advantage, especially when matched against the Chiefs’ secondary.
- Special Teams Player: Chiefs’ Brashard Smith
- Smith leads the team in kick returns with an average of 27.3 yards per return.
- His quick speed will be vital in providing the Chiefs with favorable field position.
The Chiefs will face off against the Texans at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium on Sunday at 7:20 p.m. Effective communication and strategy will be essential for Kansas City to overcome their defensive shortcomings as they aim for victory.
