Coming off of a dominating defensive performance last Sunday, the Denver Broncos have plenty of reasons to feel good.
After all, 7 sacks and 3 interceptions should lead to a defensive shutout, as the Broncos throttled the Titans (16-0). But the Broncos shouldn’t feel too good, as it’s been four years since they’ve beaten the Kansas City Chiefs.
Last week, the Broncos’ offense remained underwhelming, totaling just 103 rushing yards and 167 passing yards. The Broncos are currently ranked 26th in the NFL in points per game (17.7) and continue to struggle on third down.
The Chiefs (reigning division champions) are led by Pat Mahomes and have a high powered offense that ranks fifth in the NFL in scoring (28.7 points). They lead the league in passing yards (339.3 yards), and are considered to be top contenders in this years playoffs.
Coming off surprise back-to-back losses against the Colts and Texans, the Chiefs have shown vulnerability on defense.
Last Sunday against the Texans, the Chiefs allowed 192 rushing yards and the Houston offense possessed the ball for 39 minutes. Two weeks ago, the Colts rushed for 180 yards and held the ball for 37 minutes.
The proof is in the rushing.
Denver must implement a relentless rushing attack, to keep the Chiefs prized quarterback sidelined. Broncos starting running back Phillip Lindsay currently averages 4.7 yards per rush, followed by Royce Freeman with 4.3 yards per rush. Thus the potential to expose the Chiefs defense is there, as they currently give up (on average) 5.2 yards per rush.
Using a combination of speed and power, rookie offensive coordinator Rich Scangarello can truly implement an original Shanahan Offense, featuring multiple running backs in various formations.
When asked if the Broncos have to beat the Chiefs to get to where they want to go, head coach Vic Fangio replied, “I think every game is a measuring stick. But, to your point, the Chiefs are the reigning champions in this division I think three years running. To some degree, it is. But, to me, every week is a measuring stick.”