We've got style

It's been a while since I've been able to see the team and say what style they play. It was always a hodge-podge of confusing plays, designed I'm sure to take advantage of a player's strengths, but usually ending up as head-scratchers. Now we seem to have a direction; a style.

As any good builder will tell you, it all starts with the blueprints. Even before the foundation is poured there are plans made up that put the architect's vision into physical form; a form that everyone can see and hopefully understand. It's around that vision and blueprint which the team eventually builds its identity.

Since the Chiefs are obviously trying to build from the ground up using younger players, they will likely begin the building process by simplifying the playbook. The plays that we keep will play to the strengths of the current roster, but also lay the foundation for future growth and complexity. Short-yardage offense is where this group will likely begin their NFL lives. Double-TE or twin-RB sets will likely be the norm to begin the season, but once the players begin to jell and learn their roles and responsibilities, the complexity will take form. More passing attempts to the mid and deep zones will be one mark of the evolution. In addition, our running game will increase its efficiency with the maturation of the offensive line.

There are too many question marks on the defense to get a good picture of where this team's ability will take them, but the intention seems clear. Stuff the run, and force them to throw the ball into solid coverage. With the addition of at least one starting CB to the roster through the draft (possibly two) it seems clear that the defense wants to be a bunch of opportunistic ball-hawk, turn-over creators. With the loss of Allen, our pass rush is lessened, but the addition of Dorsey may force teams to double him and leave Hali free to wreck havoc.

Regardless of the W/L record, this team seems to have found a direction and a few of the pieces to build with. We'll likely end up with a similar pick in next year's draft, but we'll also have a clearer picture of our biggest weaknesses. It will take a couple years, but the blueprint we're building from looks good. Only time will tell if it brings a title.