The Character of a Win
by RDOGuy on Nov 22, 2009 8:17 PM CST
111 comments
From the FanPosts -Joel
For people of my generation, November 22 holds a special significance. We can all remember where we were and what we were doing at a certain moment on the very tragic 1963 iteration of that date.
It may turn out that this date may assume a similar significance for Chiefs fans. If it turns out that Scott Pioli and Todd Haley can, in fact, turn this franchise around, it's quite possible that the beginning of that turnaround will be dated November 22, 2009 - the day the Chiefs knocked off the world champion Steelers.
So be sure to make note of exactly where you were and what you were doing as you watched Ryan Succop kick the 22 yard overtime field goal to get this win. In a decade or two, you may be called upon to remember.
Make no mistake: this was an ugly win for the Chiefs. However, they didn't win because the Steelers overlooked a lowly opponent in a classic "trap" game. The Steelers definitely came to play, and certainly played well enough to win; they dominated the Chiefs in nearly every statistical category.
Ben Rothelisberger lived up to his billing, throwing for nearly 400 yards as he picked apart the Chiefs secondary at will, and shed at least three sacks - often turning those near-sacks into big plays. That's just what he does.
During the first half, the Steelers defense - even without Troy Polamalu - held the Chiefs to just 47 yards of offense, and a horrifying third down conversion percentage of 17%. They sacked Matt Cassel five times - and in the fourth quarter, forced a Cassel fumble deep in Kansas City territory. That's just what they do, too.
But the Chiefs won because they dominated the Steelers in the category for which no statistics are kept: character.
The Chiefs won this game because in the opening moments, Jamaal Charles found it within himself to locate an invisible seam in Pittsburgh's kickoff coverage, and get the first kick return touchdown for the Chiefs since 2005.
They won this game because Brandon Flowers didn't give up when he was burned for a 33 yard reception in the first quarter. Instead, he stripped the ball and recovered it.
They won this game because Andy Studebaker of tiny Wheaton College proved that he's actually learned something under the tutelage of Mike Vrabel, and when given the opportunity to step in for the injured veteran, turned two tipped passes into huge interceptions.
And they won this game because Matt Cassel shook off that fourth quarter fumble - which in Steeler World, should have sealed a victory - and engineered two drives to bring the win home.
For the first time this season, the Chiefs won a game because they deserved to win. They didn't eke it out because the other team was even worse, or because the other team made the final mistake in a game chock full of them. Instead, they fought back against adversity - including completely boneheaded game management by their own head coach at the end the first half - to beat a very good football team. And they did it in an Arrowhead Stadium that seemed to have more Steelers fans than Chiefs fans.
There's only one thing that wins that kind of game: character.
Before this season began, Todd Haley was famously quoted as saying 22 guys off the street could win two games in the NFL. Whether Haley ever said this no longer matters - unfortunately for Haley, it's going to stick to him for the rest of his career. But it's certainly true. After all, even a broken clock is right twice a day!
Well, before playing the Steelers, the Chiefs had already won the two games that those 22 guys could have won. And now they've won one for which they can proudly take credit - not because they were a better football team on that day, but because on that day, they exhibited the character of a better football team.
I'm certain that in the wake of this victory, there will be those who will say the Chiefs have turned the corner, and will finish 9-7. While that is still mathematically possible, the fact is that against the Steelers, the Chiefs also demonstrated that they still aren't a very good football team - certainly not good enough to finish 9-7.
Yeah... I know. They may indeed beat teams like the Browns and Bills, but they could just as easily lose those games. As Marty Shottenheimer was fond of saying, the other guy is on scholarship, too. They might find a way to beat the Broncos once or twice. And who knows? Maybe they'll find it within themselves to beat the Bengals, too.
But character won't be enough. The Chiefs still need more talent, more experience and better coaching. Without them, they won't finish this season with a winning record - perhaps not even close to one. Sadly, many more ugly losses are still to come - in this season, and very probably the next, too.
But against the Steelers - and for the first time this season - the Chiefs showed incontrovertible evidence that they have at least some of "the right 53" players. If it turns out that this administration can find the rest of them before their clock runs out in a season or two, November 22, 2009 will indeed turn out to be a day we will all remember.
Until then, enjoy this win. Your team earned it.
This is a FanPost and does not necessarily reflect the views of Arrowhead Pride's writers or editors. It does reflect the views of this particular fan though, which is as important as the views of Arrowhead Pride writers or editors.
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Wow. Rec'd
This is one of the best posts of the season. My hat is off to you and I thank you. Very good assessment as far as I see it.
by TXChiefan on Nov 22, 2009 8:24 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Well Said. Rec'd.
He’s dead on. This piece reminds me of Posnanski. Take that as a compliment RDOGuy.
Consistency is only a value if you are not a screw up.
by schraggyj on Nov 22, 2009 8:28 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Excellent post RDO!
Thanks for the very captivating read!
Long time kool-aid drinker & too old to learn a new trick! No flip-flopping allowed!
by ttownmikey on Nov 22, 2009 8:28 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
A nice read indeed!
Prediction: Tamba gets 10 sacks this year.
by ChiefDog on Nov 22, 2009 8:30 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
just wanted to say i had to put my dog
To sleep this week and he was a chief fan at heart. I hope my dog sent down his blessings on this win. What a win rest in peace comet
FOUR F'S FIND UM FEEL UM FUGUM FORGET UM.
by sexassassin on Nov 22, 2009 11:07 PM CST via mobile up reply actions 0 recs
Ah, im sorry man.
I had lost my dog about 2 or 3 months ago. Its a hard thing to go through but just know that you gave him the best life anybody could give a dog and you probably saved his him. I know its tough right now but just know that hes in a happier and easier place right now. Good luck man. You will get through this.
by Wrestler189s on Nov 23, 2009 1:08 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
ya thanks wrestler my dog was a good guy . but i know he is in a better place looking down on us and our chiefs
FOUR F'S FIND UM FEEL UM FUGUM FORGET UM.
by sexassassin on Nov 23, 2009 3:17 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Rec RDO
yet I wouldn’t have referenced the Assasination of a president in regards to a football team. Just me
We Will kick at least 4 Teams Asses in 09. Almost there :)
And Succop will be the Key in two of them. Skins & Raiders! Pittsburgh Sweet!
" Think and talk positive football off the field." Hank Stram
by Steve_Chiefs on Nov 22, 2009 8:33 PM CST reply actions 1 recs
Great read...
Thanks!
Hali, Johnson, Vrable, Mays, Williams, Studebaker, Belcher
-Come Get Some-
by Chiefsfan85 on Nov 22, 2009 8:33 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Excellent post sir!
If you watch Rambo backwards, it's Sylvester Stallone healing people with his magic bullet vacuum.
by ratherfantastic on Nov 22, 2009 8:34 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Excellent Read!
The team did show a great deal of character today. I hope you are right that this is the turning point to be remembered.
Go Todd Haley!
by Idahochief on Nov 22, 2009 8:38 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
sorry
to everyone here. got caught up in the moment and so happy about my feeling that we would win today and said a few curse words…..congrats to my chiefs whom i have loved for 25 yrs, and coach haley for a job well done. i am normally very laid back but my passion for my fave team in this world had me so ecstatic that i used a few words which are not appropritate and i apologize to everyone. go chiefs! 2 in a row and climbing!!!!
Just like novocaine. give it time; always works..
by be cee on Nov 22, 2009 8:43 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
if you're a chiefs fan and you weren't yelling joyous curse words
as chambers raced down the sidelines in ot…. i’d question your passion
by wd123 on Nov 22, 2009 8:49 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
One other thought:
I have heard a lot of people saying Haley is too tough; Haley will lose the players with his attitude, free agents won’t come to KC because of Haley and such. But watch the way the players respond to him when they win, some of these guys seem really love him. They were not jumping on each other, they were jumping on the coach. Also, did you see the way he ran up to Flowers after the forced fumble? the way he greeted Charles after the TD. I think that Haley may have more figured out about team building than he is given credit for. Good win coach, may there be many many more.
by Exploded on Nov 22, 2009 8:48 PM CST reply actions 3 recs
Those moments of pure joy aren't anything Haley figured out.
Just like the cussin’ after a BAD play, you’re seeing the real Haley, like it or not. His total commitment to the Chiefs is at the core of everything he does.
No question. Otis Taylor should be in the Hall of Fame.
by hmills110 on Nov 22, 2009 9:13 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Only The Beginning.
This is the springboard. This is the moment that the Kansas City Chiefs become a real team. Overcoming adversity, Hard Work, Not giving up or backing down. Not buying into the hype. The Kansas City Chiefs can now officially call themselves winners. Not survivors, Winners. From this moment on, This Chiefs team needs to build. If any Chiefs players or staff read this, My hat is off to you. Well done, Men. Very well done indeed. Now, take this into next week, and the week after, and the week after that. Be strong. We have faith in you. sincerely, Another Chiefs fan.
by BetterRedThanDead on Nov 22, 2009 8:49 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Remember, Remember.
The 22’nd of November.
by BetterRedThanDead on Nov 22, 2009 8:51 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Getting ahead of ourselves here
Chiefs won because we got a few breaks here and there but overall we were outplayed. Hate to be the downer here but let’s recognize it for what it was. There were a few big plays that broke our way but not a good whistle to whistle game for the Chiefs.
by rdub on Nov 22, 2009 8:52 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
OTOH, sometimes you just have to play an ugly style of game.
Like Big Ben taking the Steelers on his shoulders and chuckin’ the whole “balanced offense” thing, even at risk of lots of sacks. Chiefs did something similar on D and O. Stuff that’s high-risk, high-reward. Gave up some huge chunks, but got some key stops and turnovers, too.
We knew goin’ in that the safeties would be vulnerable and darned if Clancy didn’t just dial up more and more blitzes. This was something the Chiefs couldn’t’ve pulled off in the early part of the season. They were just learning the basics. But now, with the possible exception of Derrick Johnson, the whole squad just seems to “get it.” Still exploitable weaknesses in the secondary, in particular, but they’re starting to get the team concept. Very encouraging.
No question. Otis Taylor should be in the Hall of Fame.
by hmills110 on Nov 22, 2009 9:25 PM CST up reply actions 2 recs
i just
get tired of reading the fire haley posts. im not 100% pro haley but at the same time am willing to give peace a chance. lets see how things play out over the next year or two. i knew after the cowboys game at home that we would come out with the same passioj today and im proud to be a chiefs fan after the todays performance, win or lose. playing to the whistle. going all out. guys who work, and wanna win at all costs……heck yeah!!!
Just like novocaine. give it time; always works..
by be cee on Nov 22, 2009 8:53 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Agreed
Coach has made some mistakes; he is a young first time head coach. In my view he is worth a good long look. Let him use what he already knows and grow into his position. He is bright, has a modern view of the game and is working his butt off to get this done. He may be one of the few who care like WE do.
by Exploded on Nov 22, 2009 9:31 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Look at these rookie head coaches...
Steve Spagnola – good coordinatoor, but a bad head coach. He couldn’t even get the Redskins job last year.
Josh McDaniels – honestly, I like Josh but I think their current losing streak is very telling of how many breaks this team got with the first six games. Lets see how he handles adversity.
Rex Ryan – good D coordinator, but the Jets are way more talented than the Chiefs and he isn’t getting anything done after starting off strong. Plus he cried, there is no crying in football.
Tom Cable – douche
Mike Singletary – has the passion, but I question if he has a full handle on all the facets.
Jim Schwartz – I think he is the next best hire to Haley. Good football mind, and he did take over a worse situation than Haley.
Raheem Morris – the personal in Tampa don’t let him control everything, he is the ultimate players coach, extremely green. I like him personally though.
Jim Caldwell – I mean he is probably the hardest to judge. He took over a fantastic team. He hasn’t tried to fix what is not broken and the D is playing a little more physical. I think he’s a good hire, but the bar should be set hire for him considering the talent level.
I’ll take Haley over these guys any day. Why? Because he commands respect and motivates players more than any of these guys.
by I_Bleed_Red. on Nov 22, 2009 11:18 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
all Caldwell has done is go 10-0
i’d say he’s a success, no question lol… but he does have Peyton Manning.
“When you have great players, you’re a great coach.”
So with that as the standard, Haley getting this team that doesn’t really have that many great players (yet. they’re all pretty young still!) to perform at the level they did today seems to be a great sign. Imagine him with all those great players! I think we got a nice little sneak preview of that when he was in Arizona during that magical playoff run…. Mmmmm… I like it.
I’m going to reserve judgment on most of these other guys because I have been following Haley much more closely than the rest of them.
by bwelch37 on Nov 22, 2009 11:29 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Little harsh on Spagnola
I don’t know if he’ll work out long term, but he inheritted a team that was a complete disaster and has them playing hard. They are very similar to teh Chiefs in that they are overmatched almost every week, but you can see the improvement. As for not being able to get the Redskins job, is that really an indictment? Given Snyder’s dcision making history, I’d say Spagnola should put “Redskins didn’t want me” at the top of his resume.
This is my signature line. It is full of awesome and win.
by KCSatchmo on Nov 23, 2009 12:39 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Caldwell does have
the best offensive coordinator in the game – Peyton Manning.
I'm officially on the 'Draft Eric Berry' train.
Haley-Crennel 2010.
by scottbwalters on Nov 23, 2009 6:32 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Something missing.
Sure, the win might have been ugly, and we might have caught a little bit of luck along the way. Won’t argue it.
What can’t be said is that this was a “fluke” win for us. We /lost/ the toss in OT, but the D /stopped/ the Steelers, and then /we/ drove it down for the score. That’s what winners do in OT. They do their jobs and get the win. Both sides of the team got the OT win today. BOTH sides, and ST did a good job, as well.
The Chiefs didn’t just win the game, they earned the win. Period.
Cassel vs. Thigpen in Camp should improve the play of both.
Linebackers: looking better
D-lineL slight improvement
O-line: WTF?!?
by Bleedingredandgold on Nov 22, 2009 8:57 PM CST reply actions 1 recs
when we lost the coin toss
I said in jest, “This is where championships are made!!!” But really, that has a lot of truth to it. This team was put in adverse situations time and again today, and what did they do? They responded. They stepped up to the challenge. I heard some analyst, talking about Tate Forcier and how upset he was getting about his mistakes in the Ohio State-Michigan game say, “Every football player makes mistakes; it’s how you respond to them that makes the difference.”
Well, today, the Chiefs responded to some of those mistakes with the second effort, the energy and passion that was necessary to stay in the game, to make something magical happen. Flowers forcing the fumble. Studebaker making the interception in the endzone. Cassel popping up after those sacks and playing like a champ. That is how the game is meant to be played. That is how we are going to make a championship team in the future. Forcier made mistakes and let it get to him, and just threw more and more interceptions. He’s young, a true freshman quarterbacking one of the elite programs in the NCAA. But he got flustered and he lost. The Chiefs are professionals, and they played like professionals. They wanted to win, and win badly. They stepped up. They were outmanned, outgunned. But they played with the hearts of champions. Dominated in every statistical category, yes. But those second efforts, where championships are made, that level of heart and courage that allows us to perform incredible feats even in our darkest hours, came to the forefront. And we won.
There’s some profound quote about how courage is not the absence of fear, it’s doing what is right and necessary even when you are crippled by fear. That’s how the Chiefs played: with courage. They didn’t roll over and let the Steelers beat them down like they did in the Philly game. They were up against one of the best teams in the league, and by all rights they could have just given up, but that’s not acceptable in Kansas City anymore. They did what had to be done, and they won the game. The defense was playing like Derrick Thomas: they didn’t just want the tackle or the sack, they wanted to knock that football to the ground and force a fumble. They were trying to strip the ball almost every play, or at least that’s how it looked! That’s how you become an elite team. That’s the heart that, when combined with the talent and firepower that we just don’t have right now, is going to take us all the way one bright, glorious day.
Never forget what you did today, Chiefs! That’s how we need to show up every day from now on! When Pioli and Haley get us the tools, WATCH OUT NFL!!! LET’S GO CHIEFS!!!
by bwelch37 on Nov 22, 2009 9:30 PM CST up reply actions 13 recs
Rec
We Will kick at least 4 Teams Asses in 09. Almost there :)
And Succop will be the Key in two of them. Skins & Raiders! Pittsburgh Sweet!
" Think and talk positive football off the field." Hank Stram
by Steve_Chiefs on Nov 22, 2009 9:44 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Character
Well put Bro……I think it should be noted that the example and deff. was refined w/ the LJ move it put stock in a losing team and class back in their ass….This team was givien their pride back starting right then………..Thank God for today ..I needed it………N8
by SeeNred on Nov 22, 2009 10:39 PM CST up reply actions 1 recs
Totally agree
Cutting LJ sent a message loud and clear.
I think a majority of the team approved!
We Will kick at least 4 Teams Asses in 09. Almost there :)
And Succop will be the Key in two of them. Skins & Raiders! Pittsburgh Sweet!
" Think and talk positive football off the field." Hank Stram
by Steve_Chiefs on Nov 22, 2009 10:41 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Michigan is far from an elite program
Please help send my girlfriend to Broadway! Visit http://magonbroadway.blogspot.com/
by Patrick Allen on Nov 23, 2009 8:01 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
haha, come on man
I’m talking historically… they have more wins than any other college football team. right now they’re not good but the program is consistently one of the elites. so forcier has to deal with that pressure. I’m not a michigan fan by any means either, i hate michigan, but nobody can argue with their historical record.
and regardless the overall point still stands ;)
by bwelch37 on Nov 23, 2009 11:07 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Minor correction.
Courage means NOT being crippled by fear. So if a guy shows courage, then by definition he wasn’t crippled by fear. No big. Just a cliche that came out too easily, when you were actually making the opposite point.
No question. Otis Taylor should be in the Hall of Fame.
by hmills110 on Nov 23, 2009 6:43 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
This is the best early birthday present ever!
by ravenhawk on Nov 22, 2009 8:58 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
happy birthday
we all got a present today, i think
by wd123 on Nov 22, 2009 9:48 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Thanks... and that right there is what makes it sweeter.
I enjoy sharing my birfday presents.
by ravenhawk on Nov 23, 2009 8:02 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Couldn't have said it better myself
Great Post
by Randy5225 on Nov 22, 2009 8:59 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Rec'd!
Bask in the glory that is Kwame Harris. Poor Alex...
by JHWK on Nov 22, 2009 9:04 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
the only bad coaching
we have is clancy pendergast
Pro Todd Haley
by zbartmess on Nov 22, 2009 9:04 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
I'm still in his corner.
No question. Otis Taylor should be in the Hall of Fame.
by hmills110 on Nov 22, 2009 9:26 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
we did it....
and i say it with my golf game…as long as there is " one act of greatness", we will be okay….
by Sea of RED on Nov 22, 2009 9:05 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Great game!
Lions fan here just stopping by to say you guys earned a great win. Congrats and good luck the rest of the season!
by JazzyBBP on Nov 22, 2009 9:24 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Thx, Jazzy.
No question. Otis Taylor should be in the Hall of Fame.
by hmills110 on Nov 22, 2009 9:26 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Belcher
How about that late stop baby. Time to get me a 59 jersey……I’m a fan.
by Exploded on Nov 22, 2009 9:33 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
just another guy that stepped up at the best of times, when he needed to do his job
i still can’t get over this game. i’m just so happy. i can’t think of anything else. we played with the heart and spirit that I’ve been waiting to see for so long!
by bwelch37 on Nov 22, 2009 9:36 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
i was at the game
Was anyone else, it was FUCKING awesome!!!
by Coady on Nov 22, 2009 9:44 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
I am eternally jealous
i keep hearing that it seemed like there were more steelers fans there than Chiefs fans… is that true?
by bwelch37 on Nov 22, 2009 9:47 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Oh there were A LOT! About half and half i would say.
by Coady on Nov 22, 2009 9:48 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
damn steelers fans lol
but we sure showed them! CHIEFS!
by bwelch37 on Nov 22, 2009 9:49 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
i was there
first ever Chiefs game at Arrowhead. memorable, to say the least. not to mention i was there with my twin brother who is a steelers fan. I’m not making this up
by TigerPride on Nov 22, 2009 10:09 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Wow. Stellar writing, RDOGuy
I see you’ve done 6 posts. Do more. And keep them at AP, btw.
Someday you could grow up to be like Chris and Joel. :-)
by sunny D on Nov 22, 2009 9:55 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Im still in shock from it! Cassel showed me today that he has the game in him, along with JC!
by Coady on Nov 22, 2009 9:56 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
There
Were loads of steelers fans there, it was crazy. Just made me yell twice as hard. Go Chiefs!!!
by chiefs_fan83 on Nov 22, 2009 9:58 PM CST via mobile reply actions 0 recs
124, Row 11
is where I was sitting.
by chiefs_fan83 on Nov 22, 2009 10:06 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
i was in 133 row 27, and 135 row 9 one half each section
by Coady on Nov 22, 2009 10:24 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Finding a way to win
I’ve heard many times that the better teams seem to find a way to win. I would like to think that the chiefs learned that about themselvs today. And that would actually be large step towards actually becoming one of the better teams in the NFL.
by ChiefsFaninFL on Nov 22, 2009 10:15 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Finding a way to block
Let’s hope so. I think the difference might be that in the second half the O-line (horrible first half) gave Cassel a little time to throw the ball.
"let's take it one play at a time"
by Exploded on Nov 22, 2009 10:19 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Definitely, at half time i walked up to get a polish dog and told my girlfriend that we might as well just go look around at arrowhead, the game was over at that point….
BOY AM I GLAD I WAS WRONG!
by Coady on Nov 22, 2009 10:25 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Blocking
ive seen a lot of post here on AP about the switch from 4-3 to 3-4 defense, but don’t rem ever seeing much about switching to the zone blocking that the chiefs use know . Aand what kind of learning curve is there.
by ChiefsFaninFL on Nov 22, 2009 10:31 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Cassel's gotten more time later in games pretty much all season.
I think the difference this time was there were open targets down the field, AND (other than Bradley) those open guys CAUGHT THE DAMN BALL!!!
No question. Otis Taylor should be in the Hall of Fame.
by hmills110 on Nov 23, 2009 6:46 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
absolutely
There didn’t seem to be any of those ubiquitous “on the hands” drops we’ve come to love and know so well.
Air Cassel - approved for takeoff
by kabrink on Nov 23, 2009 7:18 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Can someone say
I think Denver might be becoming the laughing stock of the AFC WEST?
by Coady on Nov 22, 2009 10:28 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Let's play Two!
And beat them twice and prove your right.
"let's take it one play at a time"
by Exploded on Nov 22, 2009 10:39 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
They were slated to be such back in July.
Preseason and the 6-0 start in regulation had me flummergusted. The recent slide was more like what I expected, with the holes I saw in the team Shanny left behind and the cosmetics applied for this year. Other than Dawkins, what they did made little sense to me. I wanted Dawkins for KC, and it pissed me off that Denver got him, when KC had bucketsful of money.
No question. Otis Taylor should be in the Hall of Fame.
by hmills110 on Nov 23, 2009 6:48 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
A stat overlooked today that the Chiefs won.
I believe they had (2) penalties. 2.
How many drives have been thwarted by untimely penalties putting them in a position of futility. They eliminated those mental mistakes and it paid off. Goes back to the minus plays Haley talks about.
I remember Dawson to Taylor, Kenney to Carson, and Blackledge catching the snap in his facemask. Seen it all...
by BinSC on Nov 22, 2009 10:46 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Rec’d.
It reminded me of a Mitch Holthus narrative so I read it in his voice. Nicely done.
by JComp11 on Nov 22, 2009 11:01 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
tear
grab a bucket of guts and PLAY (in the sweet nectar of the endzone)
nfl is looking for that yao ming money
i thought it would come from some huge mongolian wrestler playing line but maybe kicker seems more appropriate.
by chiefsinchina on Nov 22, 2009 11:06 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Very Nice RDO
Another very well written post. I really enjoy your writing.
Rec’d
Feeling "The Love" and "Drinking the Kool AId"
by KCporkchop on Nov 22, 2009 11:07 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
Great post.
Like every one else, I’m totally stoked over this win. The Chiefs showed today that all the yelling, all the cursing, all the benchings and calling out players by Haley is starting to show it’s true results. Today we saw our Chiefs take on the identity of our coach. They fought hard. They were tough. They DID NOT QUIT. They showed fire and pasion. This my friends is what builds true champions. Toughness in the face of adversity. Fighting til the last whistle. Will we lose more this year? Probably. Do we know that this team can bounce back and fight to the end? Yes. Can Pioli and Haley get us back to the glory days of being annual contenders? I thik so. STAY THE COURSE. IT"S PAYING OFF.
It's years like this that I wish I was a bear. Hibernation would make it so much easier.
by Red N Gold Beast on Nov 22, 2009 11:16 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
What was stupid wa
The steeler fans were louder than the chiefs fans when the steelers had the ball. Their fans really helped us when today. I’m not sure that they understand that their not supposed to make noise when your offense has the ball, but thank you!
by raiderhater77 on Nov 22, 2009 11:32 PM CST via mobile reply actions 0 recs
Sorry! They're not their
by raiderhater77 on Nov 22, 2009 11:33 PM CST via mobile reply actions 0 recs
Wow
My auto correct really sucks on my phone. That is supposed to be win not when. I’ll shut up now.
by raiderhater77 on Nov 22, 2009 11:35 PM CST via mobile reply actions 0 recs
It's all a dream.
At least it will be until I read Fatlock’s negative article tomorrow on how Haley should have done it. :)
by GarySpFc on Nov 22, 2009 11:50 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
vote for the chiefs of nfl.com
if we got all those votes last week “predicting” a win, then surely we can get the chiefs up there with this awesome performance!
grab a bucket of guts and PLAY (in the sweet nectar of the endzone)
nfl is looking for that yao ming money
i thought it would come from some huge mongolian wrestler playing line but maybe kicker seems more appropriate.
by chiefsinchina on Nov 22, 2009 11:52 PM CST reply actions 0 recs
To me this win ranks up there with Montana on Monday Night in Mile High. Both were close hard fought games, against teams that had our number. Make no mistake, I’m not comparing Cassel to Montana. I just got the same huge rush of adrenaline from both games. Both wins came as underdogs against a player (Elway) and a team (Steelers), I just love it when we won against them. I just wish I still had my video tape from MNF. Now I’m going to go watch this win again (gotta love DVR).
GOOO CHIEFS!!!!!
by Greg Manusky on Nov 23, 2009 12:52 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
another win like this and Haley gets my backing!!!!!
This was in my opinion the best team the Chiefs have beaten in nearly a decade. Cassell needs big time improvment everybody bashed Thigpen for having a 55% completion rating in 1 preseason game and Cassel’s is worse for a whole season the guy simply has no pocket presence or any idea when to get rid of the ball or how to evade the rush. After watching him for 9 games I am almost convinced Tyler was better atleast he could run for a few yards and had pocket awareness Cassell just curls up in the fetal position and takes a sack.
by J ray on Nov 23, 2009 1:20 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
Thigpen was playing in an offense designed for him to roll out of the pocket and play on the move
This is a gimicky offense and doesn’t work for long before your QB gets completely wasted with a career ending injury. Cassel is trying to play behind an arguably worse offensive line in a pro style pocket passing defense. He is used to being protected better, but he has shown improvement and some balls for taking some hits and continuing to stand in the pocket. Is there more room for improvement? Of course. But Cassel will improve as the team improves. See last season.
Where is Thigpen now? Inactive in Miami.
by Lucasjr5 on Nov 24, 2009 4:52 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
even worse
he’s inactive in Miami which has an offensive scheme tailored more to his skills
Air Cassel - approved for takeoff
by kabrink on Nov 27, 2009 3:29 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Actually, not. And Pat White's ahead of him in the rotation in those wildcat sets for which Thiggy is ideally suited.
But when Henne’s under center, this is a far different offense than the ArrowSpread.
No question. Otis Taylor should be in the Hall of Fame.
by hmills110 on Nov 27, 2009 5:19 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
thigpen had no pocket awareness what so ever.
it was ‘read one receivers route (Tony G) and if he’s not open tuck it and run’
Pro Todd Haley
by zbartmess on Nov 24, 2009 9:25 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Really?
That must be how Bowe and Bradley caught as many balls as they did last year.
by bgrip12 on Nov 25, 2009 11:49 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
no i just meant it was mostly tony g..
he just picked one reciever to look at on the play
Pro Todd Haley
by zbartmess on Nov 25, 2009 9:22 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
REC YDs TDS
Tony G……………………….96 1058 10
DBowe and Bradley…116 1402 10
Pro Todd Haley
by zbartmess on Nov 25, 2009 9:39 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Awesome post.....
I was on the phone today with my brother in Tucson and we were talking about something else when Chris Chambers scampered down the sideline at the end and we became like giddy little schoolgirls at a Hannah Montana concert.
You are correct sir, for at least two brothers who were raised on Sunday afternoons and family get-togethers sitting around a TV watching the CHIEFS, this day won’t soon be forgotten.
REC’d
Again I looked throughout the earth and saw that the swiftest person does not always win the race, nor the strongest man the battle, and that wise men are often poor, and skillful men are not necessarily famous; but it is all by chance, by happening to be at the right place at the right time
by ChiefsFootSoldier on Nov 23, 2009 2:35 AM CST reply actions 0 recs
Thanks to everyone
for their very kind words. I am floored by the comparisons to Posnanski and Holthus. I will be a very happy man if I can ever be as good as those two guys. It’s not likely.
For those who criticized the link to the Kennedy assasination, I am not insensitive to your views. My own wife thought the same thing after reading the post – although in her case, I had to explain the signficance of 22 November 1963! However, Exploded had it exactly right: Jack Kennedy’s assassination did signal a significant change in our society. If Sunday’s win had happened on some other date, I might have compared it to the moon landing or some other noteworthy – but less tragic – event that we all remember. But since it did, it was a comparison I couldn’t pass up.
Sunday’s win also made me think of the Denver game at Mile High – which occurred on my own birthday in 1994. But a better comparison might be 1991’s thrashing of the Bills on Monday Night Football. I recently brought up my memories of being in the stands for that game to a friend of mine who lived on Long Island at that time. She told me that she remembered it quite well, too – because her brother destroyed the TV while watching it!
I will write here again. You will not always agree with me. But I will always say what I think, and while doing so, I will always be grateful to Chris and Joel – and everyone else – for their hard work in managing such a fine forum, where all of us may express our views.
Go Chiefs!
John
"Gentlemen! You can't fight in here. This is the War Room!"
by RDOGuy on Nov 23, 2009 9:12 AM CST reply actions 1 recs
I didn't disagree so much as just state the two events are very disimilar and only linked by a date
Great post RDO.
As far as the Denver game in 94. I had just got to Padre Island and sat for 3 hrs just loving that game. Was in the Stands with you at the Bills game. DT and crew just wrecked the Bills that night. Awesome. Thanks for those reminders :)
We Will kick at least 4 Teams Asses in 09. Almost there :)
And Succop will be the Key in two of them. Skins & Raiders! Pittsburgh Sweet!
" Think and talk positive football off the field." Hank Stram
by Steve_Chiefs on Nov 23, 2009 4:31 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Oh, sure, Steve...
Now that you mention it, I remember seeing you there! :-)
John
"Gentlemen! You can't fight in here. This is the War Room!"
by RDOGuy on Nov 23, 2009 4:45 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Jamaal Charles found it within himself to locate an invisible seam in Pittsburgh’s kickoff coverage
No, there are many, many, many seems in our KO coverage team. I did a small analysis with screen caps of the return if you want to check it out here . It is a bit Steelers oriented, but still shows you some good stuff.
Wall of Shame
-"I’m glad we play Pitt twice, and not Tenn this year." - Brownie's Year
-"BB is ok (slightly overated)…but he is NO Kyle Orton! I’ll take Kyle over Ben any day" - Bronco_Fan_Tom
-PIT 24 KC 27
by Johnny_S on Nov 23, 2009 11:46 AM CST reply actions 4 recs
Great post
That’s fun stuff right there.
(Raiders game 1 should be listed here, 409 yds off, we let them off the hook)
(Cowboy's should be listed here - They are who we thought they were)
Skins
Raidaaas (game 2)
***Super Bowl Champion Steelers!***
Next victim: Bolts - Thanks for Chambers by the way, Cassel to Chambers = Touchdown KANSAS CITY!
by cpa913 on Nov 23, 2009 12:13 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
"Hey guys, look at how easy this is LOL!"
FUNNY STUFF. Nice job.
by bwelch37 on Nov 23, 2009 3:24 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
That's not exactly what I was referring to, Johnny
Your analysis is correct as far as it goes.
But I just looked at the highlight reel to refresh my memory. Charles made a cut a couple of seconds after the final frame you showed. There, he was bottled up, but still managed to squeeze through and break away.
Up to that point, it was a average-to-good return that did benefit from some good blocks (one of them from Andy Studebaker, BTW) and some Steeler mistakes. But it was the final cut that made it a TD return… and Charles did that all by himself.
John
"Gentlemen! You can't fight in here. This is the War Room!"
by RDOGuy on Nov 23, 2009 3:33 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I just wish Cox could block as well on regular offense as he seems able to do in the free-for-all on kick returns.
- sure looks like a good pass-catching FB at this point, though. But I thought Castille, in limited action, was more convincing as a blocker.
No question. Otis Taylor should be in the Hall of Fame.
by hmills110 on Nov 23, 2009 7:20 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I am not taking anything away from Charles. He has to hit the lanes and makes the cuts, but their is a reason our ST is ranked dead last by a lot and has given up 4 TDs and countless
“big ones”. As I said before, or meant to say, Charles is a talented player and definitely a giant step in the road of rebuilding for you all. One of those guys that has that “I can break one at anytime” feel.
Wall of Shame
-"I’m glad we play Pitt twice, and not Tenn this year." - Brownie's Year
-"BB is ok (slightly overated)…but he is NO Kyle Orton! I’ll take Kyle over Ben any day" - Bronco_Fan_Tom
-PIT 24 KC 27
by Johnny_S on Nov 24, 2009 9:15 AM CST up reply actions 0 recs
Rec Johnny
We Will kick at least 4 Teams Asses in 09. Almost there :)
And Succop will be the Key in two of them. Skins & Raiders! Pittsburgh Sweet!
" Think and talk positive football off the field." Hank Stram
by Steve_Chiefs on Nov 23, 2009 4:41 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
I love it.
More credit to you again Johnny, for posting that up. That was great. Thanks for the post, and letting us know about it.
by Archyrr on Nov 23, 2009 7:04 PM CST up reply actions 0 recs
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