Chiefs vs. Eagles Preseason: Five Players Who Helped Themselves
by Joel Thorman on Aug 30, 2010 11:03 AM CDT
in 2010 Kansas City Chiefs Preseason
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The Kansas City Chiefs lost 20-17 to the Philadelphia Eagles in the third preseason game.
Though they lost, there were still some solid performances.
Here are five Chiefs who helped themselves against the Eagles on Friday night.
My biggest issue with Williams last year was that he had no "playermaker stats" -- No interceptions, fumbles or sacks.
He changed that on Friday night with two big sacks against the Eagles. The Chiefs blitz was successful and Williams was part of that.
He also nearly intercepted a pass and had another pass breakup. Overall, a solid game for him.
He was rewarded with placement on the first team in the latest depth chart.
Like Williams, Studebaker had two sacks on Friday night.
His style of play seems to have a way of energizing his teammates and the crowd.
It's hard to believe he would put starting LB Mike Vrabel on the bench but he has made the Chiefs get him on the field more often, particularly in nickel situations.
He's making the Chiefs decision at outside linebacker a difficult one.
WR/RB Dexter McCluster
He's again showing his versatility. He's expected to be the Chiefs slot receiver but he only caught three balls for zero yards on Friday.
That's OK. He made his impact in other ways.
He carried the ball eight times for 47 yards and an average nearing six yards per carry. He also returned three kicks over 30 yards each.
He didn't exactly need to help himself but he did on Friday night.
This is the second game in a row Battle has stepped up to be the Chiefs leading rusher. He had 10 carries for 49 yards for another solid performance.
Battle was rewarded with a third team placement on the latest depth chart. Todd Haley said after the game that Battle is trying to get noticed and he's done a great job of that.
He probably earned himself a spot on the roster the last two games.
WR Jeremy Horne
An undrafted free agent with no catches is a strange player to pick here but Horne had a solid game.
As an undrafted free agent, he's going to need to perform well on special teams to find a spot on the roster. He simply won't have an impact at receiver in year one.
He had a couple of key special teams tackles and downed a ball inside the 15-yard line on Friday against the Eagles.
It's the little things that count with these no-name type of players and Horne is doing the little things right.
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I don't remember Sippio ever catching a TD
"Reach for new elevation; and see just how high we can go. Full blown determination; will take us further than we know. My own anticipation; keeps the fire from burning out, It's time for domination... no one can ever take us down" - Pillar - "For the Love of the Game"
by Red N Gold Beast on Aug 30, 2010 12:39 PM CDT up reply actions
Since DeMorrio and Andy had huge games
Can we also assume the front 3 were doing their job? Or is it more to do with the fact that Phili has some O-Line issues?
by craig in calgary on Aug 30, 2010 11:05 AM CDT reply actions 1 recs
excellant question?
I was wondering the same thing during the game. Im hoping it was a combo of Romeo,the scheme and our players abilities.
Winning begins with Attitude - Haley and Pioli will be winners in KC!
I'll forever be a Chiefs fan! Only God himself could take that away from me, but when I get to my great reward, I'll rejoin two bigger fans, my Mom and Dad.
Excellent question indeed
Where is Kalo with his breakdown?
"They should expect everything..." -Eric Berry
I think Romeo is they key.
I know that you're afraid... you're afraid of us. You're afraid of change. I don't know the future. I didn't come here to tell you how this is going to end. I came here to tell you how it's going to begin.
It's coming.
Gone all weekend + full game + busy start to the week = Later breakdown than usual.
"I don't know if I want to go to New York. They'll have to pay me a lot more money because I like it here in Kansas City." -- Roger Maris
by KaloPhoenix on Aug 30, 2010 11:54 AM CDT up reply actions
Dammit man!
Don’t you realize these are more important than your happiness to us?
Check out my blog on software development:
http://www.turnleafdesign.com/
by Scaryclouds on Aug 30, 2010 12:23 PM CDT via mobile up reply actions
More important than my wife and employer's happiness as well? =)
"I don't know if I want to go to New York. They'll have to pay me a lot more money because I like it here in Kansas City." -- Roger Maris
by KaloPhoenix on Aug 30, 2010 12:26 PM CDT up reply actions
To me? .... Sure.
lol.
RUN DEXTER RUN!!!!
President - Team Colquitt Fan Club - est. July 29, 2010
by ARROWHEADSHANE on Aug 30, 2010 12:32 PM CDT up reply actions
Let my just lay it out for you
KP’s list of priorities:
1. My (Scaryclouds’) needs
2. AP’s needs
3. My needs again
and when you have time…
4. Your needs
Check out my blog on software development:
http://www.turnleafdesign.com/
by Scaryclouds on Aug 30, 2010 1:04 PM CDT via mobile up reply actions
Dorsey, Jax, Edwards
"They should expect everything..." -Eric Berry
Smith hasn't been getting hardly any reps at NT
Pretty sure he is listed at DE on the depth chart. Lokey has gotten the next most snaps at NT I believe. But Edwards actually has been looking a lot better this year than last.
"They should expect everything..." -Eric Berry
I watched the game twice and Smith...
Got 2 series at NT with the 1st team. Big #90 was EXCELLENT at the nose. Stopped 2-3 short yardage run plans. Very stout and ate double teams like an all pro.
by Larryemcdaniel on Aug 30, 2010 11:41 AM CDT via mobile up reply actions
I think the reason being....we will use 2 DL sets, and they want smith as one of them
Team Pioli/Haley. Decade of the Chiefs.
Team Colquitt
Smith got the whole 2nd quarter against Tampa at NT.
Again, I don’t have a number on NT reps for him this week yet, but it seems he’s playing both equally.
"I don't know if I want to go to New York. They'll have to pay me a lot more money because I like it here in Kansas City." -- Roger Maris
by KaloPhoenix on Aug 30, 2010 12:29 PM CDT up reply actions
I wonder...
if the coaching staff is starting to come around to keeping Smith as a NT…
I think they are giving more snaps to Lokey and even Brown, trying to get as good of a look at them as possible in the preseason… but they could just cut both, and go with an Edwards/Smith rotation in the regular season
this should be the most exciting Chiefs team in years! Most major needs filled with playmakers, and the league's best coaching staff... 10-6 a possibility?
Im down with that
Smith has looked damn good, Edwards def looks improved and Lokey looks terrible.
by Larryemcdaniel on Aug 30, 2010 12:52 PM CDT up reply actions
Smith will be both NT and depth at DE
He has played both really well and consistently get doubled at both spots, at least from what I’ve seen so far. I think Smith is quickly emerging as one of the diamonds in the rough that we needed find. Good teams become great not because of the marquis free agents, but the unheralded guys that turn into solid contributors, Shaun Smith is becoming one such player.
...And as the roar of 80,000 red-clad great plains warriors fills the hallowed halls of Arrowhead, it will strike fear into the hearts of lesser men. For on that field, individual men toil for something greater than individual honors. They toil as brothers-in-arms, as 53 spirits striving towards a single purpose and driven by a single goal: The glory that comes with vanquishing your foes. They will achieve their birthright, they will be champions.
I would expect Dorsey Edwards Gilberry honestly with jackson/magee rotating
but I sort of think we see more 2 down lineman sets
Team Pioli/Haley. Decade of the Chiefs.
Team Colquitt
Smith was in several times in Jackson's place this past game.
I don’t have a figure yet, but I noticed sleeves in the DE spot with Edwards and Dorsey.
"I don't know if I want to go to New York. They'll have to pay me a lot more money because I like it here in Kansas City." -- Roger Maris
by KaloPhoenix on Aug 30, 2010 12:27 PM CDT up reply actions
yep Smith played some DE but,
It only came after ge got 2 series at NT
by Larryemcdaniel on Aug 30, 2010 1:21 PM CDT via mobile up reply actions
Since DeMorrio and Andy had huge games
Can we also assume the front 3 were doing their job? Or is it more to do with the fact that Phili has some O-Line issues?
I know that on one of Williams’ sacks Tyson Jackson opened up the lane for him by demanding continued attention from the double team
Ryan Succop will be the kicker for the AFC in the 2011 Pro Bowl
by PVChiefsfan on Aug 30, 2010 11:50 AM CDT up reply actions
On both sacks
Tyson demanded double teams. It was the exact same play call and it was Tyson who caused the sack opportunity. Demorrio did nothing special. He was running free on both. I attribute more of it to the scheme and DLine.
by Larryemcdaniel on Aug 30, 2010 12:04 PM CDT via mobile up reply actions
Studebaker> Vrabel
Give the kids a chance to play. Vrabel is washed up
I'd rather be a free man in my grave than living as a puppet or a slave
I wouldn't go as far as to say Vrabel is washed up
But Studebaker is clearly the future, and he is the better player on the field. I think a lot of why Vrabel is still the starter is a leadership thing. He knows Romeo’s defense better than Romeo does.
"They should expect everything..." -Eric Berry
Cant Vrabel share his leadership and experience
from the sidelines? Time to let Studes get his work in, get him some PT, some experience
I'd rather be a free man in my grave than living as a puppet or a slave
Vrabel is still making plays on the field
he had SEVERAL good tackles, strung out running plays, was in the right place on coverage and containment… we need him on the field, too.
I like the nickel package now with Vrabel inside w/DJ and Stude outside with Hali
this should be the most exciting Chiefs team in years! Most major needs filled with playmakers, and the league's best coaching staff... 10-6 a possibility?
+1
Vrabel DID make a few stops, and I wouldn’t be shy to say that those tackles are due his experience on field and simply knowing the habits of players and what their next move will be. There were a couple tackles that he didn’t even get credit for that I noticed.
But I’m sure Vrabel will see less and less snaps, but he won’t be unseated as the starter. Studebaker will get there, he’s sure as hell shown that he CAN be the starter. Patience. And he knows that he’ll get that opportunity. With Mike V mentoring him, Studebaker will be very valuable to us in the future.
I know that you're afraid... you're afraid of us. You're afraid of change. I don't know the future. I didn't come here to tell you how this is going to end. I came here to tell you how it's going to begin.
yep, its at the point now where I think the pats made a mistake....cassel, ok....but to throw vrabel in...
vrabel could have been productive in NE for awhile….Im glad we have him
Team Pioli/Haley. Decade of the Chiefs.
Team Colquitt
Concur...
and am glad we got Vrabel. The dude is a manimal. I watched the game a few times and Vrabel was always around the ball. He made quite a few good plays and caused plenty of disturbances. I am a supporter, but I’d also like to see more of STUDebaker. I vote to push Vrabel inside and keep STUD on the outside, wreaking havoc on the QBs opposite of Hali. Can you imagine having those two going full throttle every play?
2010 Chiefs are on the rise. This is the most excited I've been since 'Nam...
by kcchiefsfan72 on Aug 30, 2010 1:04 PM CDT up reply actions
yeah I dont agree on that one...I like Studebaker, I think hes the future at OLB for the chiefs
however Vrabel still has it….seriously, hes been one of the most impressive defenders on the team this year.
I am impressed with how hes able to still be effective
Team Pioli/Haley. Decade of the Chiefs.
Team Colquitt
Horne
looks to have the body of an NFL reciever. Hoping he gets a spot.
Horne>Urban>Lance Long
I'd rather be a free man in my grave than living as a puppet or a slave
Lance Long is the tits
Didn’t you see him haul in that bomb from Palko?
Palko2Long>Montana2Rice
by craig in calgary on Aug 30, 2010 11:19 AM CDT up reply actions
Must have missed that one
while I was checking out the scam that is the “new” Arrowhead
I'd rather be a free man in my grave than living as a puppet or a slave
scam?
please elaborate, I dont pay taxes up there am Im sure you do and wonder why its a scam?
The picture is a Chiefs pumpkin, yeah that is right a Chiefs pumpkin.
Everything "new"
is strictly for generating profits, not for improving fans experiences. Clark doing all he can to make as much paper as possible. The ribbon board (which was new last year) is distracting. Makes you fell like watching some crazy japanamation. Much rather have the ring of honor. Club level is a wanna-be Oak Park Mall. The upper concourses are wider, but now concessions are on both sides, so lines converge in the middle, making it more difficult to get through.
I was all about the rolling roof, but when the got shut down, and the Chiefs said the were still going to do renovations. I was skeptical. I am of the belief if it aint broke, dont fix it. I dont think Arrowhead was broke.
I'd rather be a free man in my grave than living as a puppet or a slave
thanks for the response
the most important question, do they still have the troughs to piss into?
The picture is a Chiefs pumpkin, yeah that is right a Chiefs pumpkin.
No
Individual urinals
Check out my blog on software development:
http://www.turnleafdesign.com/
by Scaryclouds on Aug 30, 2010 11:46 AM CDT via mobile up reply actions
Just my two cents
Was Arrowhead broken, probably not. Was renovation needed to continue to be one of the best stadiums in the country…absolutely. I love Arrowhead, it’s an amazing place to watch a game but it is an old facility and definitely needed a face lift. I understand that you think that most of it is to increase the money in Clark’s pocket book but lets be honest here the Chiefs did put up a lot of money of their own for their stadium. The Chiefs needed the renovation to be able to keep pace with the larger market teams. If the renovations allow them to do that then I’m all for it.
As far as the money goes, it needs to be taken into perspective. 10 million in profit sounds like a lot of money and don’t get me wrong it is, but when you look at it as return on investment it isn’t as great as it sounds. The Chiefs are valued at around 980 million I think so when you take that into consideration 10 million isn’t such a great figure it’s actually right around 1 % profit. I’m sure the Chiefs are making more than that a year in profit but you get my drift. Most businesses will have a hard time staying afloat with such a limited amount of profit because it doesn’t allow for any extra expenses (payroll, losses, and new equipment) on a yearly basis.
We all love this game and I’m sure the Hunts love it to but let’s be honest it’s a business and they are really in it to make money, and they should be.
What I want to know is why is it that KC’s mayor seems hell bent on breaking the leases already by not ponying up the miniscule amount of money that the city is required to put up for the benefit it gets?
by Bsketbal52 on Aug 30, 2010 11:43 AM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
Yeah, I'm all for firing Funkhouser.
For that little amount of money the City pays in as part of the lease, the Royals and the Chiefs bring in a helluva a lot of revenue and, were they to pack up and leave, Kansas City would be a lot poorer for it.
I'm with you
I just don’t get it. 2 million for what the Chiefs and Royals bring to KC is chump change. I understand he has a budget and all but his budget wouldn’t be what it is without the Chiefs and Royals.
Well if they left it like that no more Chiefs
Clark came out and said he would move the chiefs to another city if certain things were done . He also put a lot of his own money into arrowhead . we as fans will gripe because of a little money . i think the rolling roof should have been done .
CHIEFS fan 4 life
by Charles # 1 chiefs fan on Aug 30, 2010 11:50 AM CDT up reply actions
I guess we should be thankful the 5'6" pussy held the city hostage
Politics aside, Obama would of better been served, buying 5 "new" football teams.
by HIV 2 Elway on Aug 30, 2010 12:29 PM CDT up reply actions
I don't think the Hall of Honor generates much revenue.
But, even so, it was packed for most of the game on Friday.
Thought it was absolutely awesome and 100 times better than the Ring of Honor ever was, especially for teaching kids about the history of the Chiefs (ie: no kid is going to care about a name, a number and some dates on the side of the wall but they do care about seeing the busts of the players, their equipment and reading part of their story).
I also never had an issue with the concessions, or the lines to the concessions, and the bathrooms are much improved.
I agree,
My only complaint about the Hall of Honor was it was EFFING HOT in there, on Friday. Moreso because of the tons of people in there, but damn. ;)
It was very impressive though. Overall, I’m happy with the renovations. Arrowhead was state-of-the-art in 1972, and these renovations bring it back to that level almost 40 years later.
Palko is so terrible
this should be the most exciting Chiefs team in years! Most major needs filled with playmakers, and the league's best coaching staff... 10-6 a possibility?
Yep
I was wondering what the coaches saw in him…
I guess he’s a project QB. Sheesh, that’s one heck of a project!
lance long has fallen off the face of the earth, so strange
Team Pioli/Haley. Decade of the Chiefs.
Team Colquitt
they are saving him for the regular season.
The picture is a Chiefs pumpkin, yeah that is right a Chiefs pumpkin.
is that also happening with tim castille?
he seems to have disappeared too
Team Pioli/Haley. Decade of the Chiefs.
Team Colquitt
they are trying to hide the WMD's
McCluster and Arenas are just illusions, they will unleash hell on earth this year when they take the reigns off Castille and Long.
The picture is a Chiefs pumpkin, yeah that is right a Chiefs pumpkin.
by jrcnc on Aug 30, 2010 12:31 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
Rec'd for good, quality entertainment...
2010 Chiefs are on the rise. This is the most excited I've been since 'Nam...
by kcchiefsfan72 on Aug 30, 2010 1:09 PM CDT up reply actions
The Different Between Horne and Other Pre-Season WR Heroes
Horne has speed to go with his hands and special teams play. Guys like Sippio couldn’t get separation but we’ve already watched Horne’s ability to get free. Also his ST play was terrific vs. Philly. Once upon a guy we cut a guy named Horn that ended up in New Orleans and a few Pro Bowls. Let’s hope we don’t make the same mistake again.
Do I think he’s going to be the next Joe Horn? Probably not, but I think he has a chance to be a good receiver in this league. Remember Colston was a 7th round pick and Jerry Rice came out of Mississippi Valley State.
Horn has the two things that can't be coached, speed and height
If he turns out to be coachable he could end up being this year’s Belcher.
Predictions:
This year will be better
Now all he's gotta do is get rid of that UGLY # on his jersey!
I know that you're afraid... you're afraid of us. You're afraid of change. I don't know the future. I didn't come here to tell you how this is going to end. I came here to tell you how it's going to begin.
Run the Ball, Run the Ball, Run the Ball.....
Outside of Jones, everyone is running like crazy right now, from the starter to the 3rd stringers. This is going to be the key to success for us this year, Running the Freakin’ Ball, like a 65/35 kind of ratio.
"Reject a woman, and she will never let it go. One of the many defects of their kind. Also, weak arms."
-Dwight Schrute
I assume you say this based on our QB
I think our o-line has been better at pass protection than advertised, we just happen to have a quarterback with zero pocket presence. If that were a Madden Stat Caseel would have a 2 out of 100. That’s right a 2. He makes a line look bad with his ‘duck his head and lumber toward the line of scrimmage for a zero yard gain’ style after 3 seconds in the pocket. I get so sick of watching him.
by Ryan in Nixa on Aug 30, 2010 11:23 AM CDT up reply actions
Run the ball because it makes Cassel better
and we got freakin JC25 and T. Jones and Dexter. Its our strength, not because Cassel sucks .
Have You Watched Other QBs Lately?
I’m not talking about the top flight Pro Bowlers either, I’m talking about average NFL QBs and Matt Cassel does not fit the bill. I know Haley and Weiss see it or they wouldn’t be running 3 yard pass plays and check downs if they didn’t. I have gone on record for 10 wins this year so I will stick to it but Matt C has really lowered my hopes a little bit watching him this pre-season. He has more time in the pocket if he’d slide around better, but his footwork is not very good so when he moves even a little his passes are way off because he has to wind up like a baseball pitcher to throw.
by Ryan in Nixa on Aug 30, 2010 11:48 AM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
I personally thought Matt looked better in the pocket Friday night than he had before.
He seemed to have better intuition about where the initial pressure was coming from, and manged to step out of it. On the two plays where he got sacked he at least made it back up to the line of scrimmage, where – if this were last year – he’d have been taken down for 5+ yard loss. Now, that’s not going to win you any Super Bowls any time soon, but just saying whereas you claim, he has zero pocket presence, I would say he’s improved to a 1 or 2. ;p
Yup...
overall, I think Cassel looked better and played smarter. I still cannot get over the ignorant duck and cover play where he couldn’t come up with 1 friggin’ yard, but I can forgive and forget if he steps it up come Sep 13th…
2010 Chiefs are on the rise. This is the most excited I've been since 'Nam...
by kcchiefsfan72 on Aug 30, 2010 1:17 PM CDT up reply actions
Dion Gales
Is another guy who helped himself.
A sack in the 4th Quarter of the game. He was being doubled most of the time and still pushing through. I know this is against backup olines but its still good progress.
I see him making the 53…..he ended the season on it and I dont see anyone on the dline that improved more than he has, besides maybe Gilberry.
"One of the teams asked me a running back question," McCluster said. "They said when you have the ball, do you focus on the guy who's in front of you or the next guy.
"I told them 99% of the time, I'm going to make that first guy miss. Then, I'm onto the next."
I was waiting for you!
when I saw Gales get that sack I fully expected to see a front paged post from you……
The picture is a Chiefs pumpkin, yeah that is right a Chiefs pumpkin.
haha!
Well I was very excited but not suprised. I know Gales has it in him to be an outstanding defensive lineman. I am just very glad he is showing you guys what I have seen all along.
"One of the teams asked me a running back question," McCluster said. "They said when you have the ball, do you focus on the guy who's in front of you or the next guy.
"I told them 99% of the time, I'm going to make that first guy miss. Then, I'm onto the next."
I was impressed with him
and also Magee. For me to type the words impressed and Magee in the same sentence blows my mind but he was pretty good.
The picture is a Chiefs pumpkin, yeah that is right a Chiefs pumpkin.
They list Gales at 310
But Lokey is listed at 300 and Gales looks way bigger. I would say more like 330. Gales looks to be the be the biggest guy we have. Definately a double team draw.
Magee looks to have some good agility. He needs to really play more like he did last game. He did look pretty good.
"One of the teams asked me a running back question," McCluster said. "They said when you have the ball, do you focus on the guy who's in front of you or the next guy.
"I told them 99% of the time, I'm going to make that first guy miss. Then, I'm onto the next."
I heard Magee's name all night being announced
granted it was on TV but he really stuck out to me. I would like to see some more of these guys start making a push on the starters, that is the only way we are going to get better.
The picture is a Chiefs pumpkin, yeah that is right a Chiefs pumpkin.
I still have some faith in alex magee, I was one of the FEW who liked what I saw with his pass rush last year at times
Team Pioli/Haley. Decade of the Chiefs.
Team Colquitt
He doesn't help the situation much
But I’m not saying run the ball to bash him, I’m saying the running game is looking damn near explosive right now, with or without a top flight passing game. It’s not one of those, “Meh, our passing game is crap so we may as well stick with the run”, I’m saying we have the potential to have a top 5 running game and need to rely on that as our bread and butter. Oh, and sprinkle some damn play action in there every once in a while, but not before running the ball 20 times.
"Reject a woman, and she will never let it go. One of the many defects of their kind. Also, weak arms."
-Dwight Schrute
My fault Ryan
“This replies for you”………………………Mondays……………………………………
"Reject a woman, and she will never let it go. One of the many defects of their kind. Also, weak arms."
-Dwight Schrute
No I Agree Severn
I am on board with the run first mentality, but that only works if the defense holds up their end of the bargain and keeps the game close. So far so good with the defense, but we haven’t faced Phillip Rivers and the SD offense yet. I’m hopeful but Matt Cassel has me more concerned than any other part of this team right now. For the money we threw at him I expected more. I worry that he might have “David Carr” syndrome and be shell-shocked from last year’s sack fest.
by Ryan in Nixa on Aug 30, 2010 11:38 AM CDT up reply actions
I disagree
he made some nice throws, especially the passes to Bowe, including the TD.
A couple of other plays, he did a great job of stepping up, evading pressure and making a strong throw.
Still work to be done, but you shouldn’t panic on him.
this should be the most exciting Chiefs team in years! Most major needs filled with playmakers, and the league's best coaching staff... 10-6 a possibility?
Check Down Syndrome
Matty C has no confidence right now to fit a ball into a tight space, that’s why he holds onto the ball too long. Bowe was pretty open and it was a nice pass but let’s not forget that he had 85 yards in three quarters of football last night. I am not expecting Drew Brees numbers in this offense that is going to be “run first” but I expect more than 85 yards passing in the 2010 NFL. The issue is he threw a pick on a terribly thrown ball to go along with only 85 yards and still did his “duck and lumber” tactic on a couple plays where he had another couple seconds to find a receiver. I’m not sure you can fix what is broken with him.
by Ryan in Nixa on Aug 30, 2010 11:45 AM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
so that TD to Horne in TB wasn't in tight space?
sure looked that way to me
The picture is a Chiefs pumpkin, yeah that is right a Chiefs pumpkin.
by jrcnc on Aug 30, 2010 11:49 AM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
It was
and it was a freakin’ laser – before that pass I didn’t know Cassel could throw like that, not even when he was with NE.
Ryan Succop will be the kicker for the AFC in the 2011 Pro Bowl
by PVChiefsfan on Aug 30, 2010 11:55 AM CDT up reply actions
I'm thinking the main problem here is consistency
I’m of the opinion that Cassel isn’t the kind of QB that’s going to win games by himself, not put the whole team on his back and make average WR’s look awesome. But he can be a decent game manager if not asked to do much, and utilize the RB’s out of the backfield. Oh, and Run the Freakin’ ball.
"Reject a woman, and she will never let it go. One of the many defects of their kind. Also, weak arms."
-Dwight Schrute
It was a fine pass
I am not being unfair and he’s made some good throws, but in reality he is a starting NFL quarterback and neither of his TD passes were exactly throws into a dinner plate opening. They were throws that any starting NFL QB should make 95% of the time. I’m not bashing Matt Cassel, I’m watching the games and see a QB that looks awkward in the pocket and tries to duck and run when it’s not neeed OR doesn’t throw the ball away when it IS needed. He just scares the hell out of me. I have watched a LOT of football and something about Matt gives me less confidence than watching a guy like Trent Dilfer ever did.
by Ryan in Nixa on Aug 30, 2010 11:56 AM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
why does it always have to be Matt Cassel?
maybe if the recievers could shake off the defenders a little better they would be more open, maybe if the rest of the team can follow their assignments and run their routes properly he wouldn’t have to rely on the check down. You have to realize that he threw his first INT of the preseason against Philly, that could have easily been knocked away if Chambers had his head upfield. Regardless the blame always falls on Cassel and its unfair. Yeah he makes some boneheaded plays out there but it isn’t always his fault.
The picture is a Chiefs pumpkin, yeah that is right a Chiefs pumpkin.
Chambers Should have knocked It Away
But a poor throw is a poor throw. I was a Grbac supporter so I know what it’s like to defend a player and make excuses, but this time I’m watching a QB that doesnt look comfortable. He has better receivers than we’ve probably put on the field in years and you have to trust your instincts and right now Cassel looks like he is hesistating. I’m not against check downs but getting your 170 lb dude lit up because he stared down the play also does not inspire confidence. You can’t convince me Chambers and Bowe are both covered every play he ducks and lumbers. He isn’t making his second read very often. Watch him, he’ll look down the field and then immediately go to his check down guy. The second receiver is rarely looked for.
by Ryan in Nixa on Aug 30, 2010 12:17 PM CDT up reply actions
I agree about the second receiver
they mentioned it several times already in the preseason that certain players were open and not even looked at.
Honestly if you were sacked 50+ times wouldn’t you try and throw the ball away all the time? I don’t like it when he tries to scramble, and some of his decision making skills are questionable but who else do we have? Is anyone else going to be better with what we got right now?
The picture is a Chiefs pumpkin, yeah that is right a Chiefs pumpkin.
You're Not Going to Like The Answer
Croyle. I know the back-up QB is always the most beloved person in town and all the cilches and I know some jack hole is going to throw his 0-9 record out there as if he’s a baseball pitcher in the 1970s, but Croyle at this point in their careers is just a better pure passer. This league is built for passing, and we can run until our heart is content but if our defense gives up a couple quick TDs to the Chargers I know I’d rather have a guy with good pocket precence and a great arm than a dude that looks shaky. I am not even much of a Croyle guy because he’s a pansy but he is the best we have on the current roster.
by Ryan in Nixa on Aug 30, 2010 12:30 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
I disagree
and not because of the win/loss record just because I think that Cassel has been taking all the first team reps this offseason. Weis is on board and changed up the terminology. It still is a learning process for Cassel. So far everything I have seen our offense is ahead of where it was this point last season. I feel confident with Cassel this year, and confident that he is going to utilize all his weapons on the field appropriately during all 4 quarters.
The picture is a Chiefs pumpkin, yeah that is right a Chiefs pumpkin.
I Hope I'm Wrong
I’d love to eat my words about Matt Cassel but he needs to look up field more and to his second receiver and only check down when he feels pressure. The issue I have is I don’t think he “feels” pressure very well. It’s like he literally counts in his head ‘1 2 3’ and then ducks and runs when that clock is up even if they only rushed four and we have them stone-walled. I will say in Croyle’s defense he has been on some awful teams and has played well in games he has started. If he went somewhere else like Oakland I think he could take that team to 7-9 wins. That’s saying something.
by Ryan in Nixa on Aug 30, 2010 12:38 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
You may have noticed...
Croyle was sidelined by injury the last two games.
And no one was surprised. In fact, it was expected.
I love Croyle’s ability, but that doesn’t mean much if you’re not available. Cassel proved last year that he’s tough as nails, and you don’t have to worry much about his availability from week to week.
Just another benefit of running the ball
Helping out our defense and keeping them on the sideline more than last year. Obviously we will have to sprinkle the pass in here and there, but like I said before, I’m wondering why we aren’t using the play-action more, especially with our running game so strong, maybe I got spoiled with the way Trent was able to do it.
"Reject a woman, and she will never let it go. One of the many defects of their kind. Also, weak arms."
-Dwight Schrute
I think you'll slowly see it more in the regular season.
not to be all cliche, but we’re not going to show all our cards right now.
DeBerg! I'm not a charter member of his fan club, but I have to give credit where it's due--
That guy could do a fake handoff into playaction better than I’ve ever seen (or seen since). I was always amazed how hard the D bit on that…He was pretty good on drawing them offsides with a hard count too…I wonder if they’d consider bringing him in just to teach those two things…
I'm not sure why I havent noticed it until last Friday
But Studebaker looks FRIGGIN HUGE out there. He and Kendrick Lewis are demanding playing time with their play on the field.
K.Lew prooved he could play in this league.
I know that you're afraid... you're afraid of us. You're afraid of change. I don't know the future. I didn't come here to tell you how this is going to end. I came here to tell you how it's going to begin.
lots of good performances on defense
Studebaker, DW, DJ, Gales, Berry, Carr, Flowers, and the front 3…
for once, we saw a defense that was fired up, aggessive, making plays, getting pressure on the QB, getting sacks, and even a turnover.
Looking for more of the same going forward
this should be the most exciting Chiefs team in years! Most major needs filled with playmakers, and the league's best coaching staff... 10-6 a possibility?
yeah Carr had a nice breakup in single coverage
good to see that after all his camp reports.
The picture is a Chiefs pumpkin, yeah that is right a Chiefs pumpkin.
Personally ...
I didn’t ever see him get his head around and was looking for a Pass Interference flag. Glad there wasn’t one, but I wouldn’t have booed had they thrown it.
now that you mention it
I didn’t see him get it around either. But he surely got down and celebrated when the play was over!
The picture is a Chiefs pumpkin, yeah that is right a Chiefs pumpkin.
no it was flowers that that PI should have bee called on
by readANDgold58 on Aug 30, 2010 12:41 PM CDT up reply actions
agreed
Carr didn’t get his head around, but, that doesn’t mean it’s an automatic flag… he hit the receiver’s arm right when the ball got there, was a good play.
flowers was all over maclin in the endzone, AND never turned his head around… certainly got lucky with no flag there
this should be the most exciting Chiefs team in years! Most major needs filled with playmakers, and the league's best coaching staff... 10-6 a possibility?
I think players get calles based on reputation too
Flowers is developing a reputation throughout the league as one of the better CBs and that alone is going to get him the benefit of the doubt a lot of times when the Ref isn’t sure.
Predictions:
This year will be better
I think Shaun Smith can be added to this list.
From what I saw, during his 2 series with the 1st team, he played NT and was outstanding!!!
by Larryemcdaniel on Aug 30, 2010 11:38 AM CDT via mobile reply actions
Another player that I thought looked good was Berry.
Berry has been playing alright, but was it my imagination or was he in the middle of almost every play. Maybe it was the pressure up front but I thought Berry showed very well.
Your right
He is pretty much expected to be our spark plug every play but he is living up to his name for sure.
He will be our defensive MVP for years to come I expect.
"One of the teams asked me a running back question," McCluster said. "They said when you have the ball, do you focus on the guy who's in front of you or the next guy.
"I told them 99% of the time, I'm going to make that first guy miss. Then, I'm onto the next."
almost like the exact opposite of Pollard.
To the casual watcher Pollard made enough big plays to get the attention he deserved for them, but no one seemed to notice when he’d give up a play and disappear into the backfield.
Berry’s made a few nice plays here and there (hasn’t yet made the big INT we’re all waiting for), but many of his best plays have gone very much unnoticed unless you look for them.
In any event, I’ll take the latter.
Maybe someone can explain this to me...
Why are the Chiefs not using Williams and DJ together? I mean I figure that one of them would be out of their “natural” position, but wouldn’t DJ out of position be better than Belcher or Mays on a good day? I don’t get it…
by Stone Throwers on Aug 30, 2010 12:12 PM CDT reply actions
No
Neither one is very good at taking on blockers and clogging running lanes. They’re both the type of guys who are best at being able to roam sideline-to-sideline and use their speed (their best attributes) to make plays.
Agreed.
I’d like to see Williams/Belcher on the field at the same time at least once. I know they’re considered “smaller” ILB’s, but they’re the two that seem to be the best at doing what they need to do consistently.
"I don't know if I want to go to New York. They'll have to pay me a lot more money because I like it here in Kansas City." -- Roger Maris
by KaloPhoenix on Aug 30, 2010 12:25 PM CDT up reply actions
Mike Nolan in Denver did just fine
with Wesley Woodyard at ILB and he’s just 212. That’s hardly any bigger than some of our corners. Height and weight are just as over-rated as 40 times.
I think I saw them together briefly in the Eagles game
It was only for a couple plays if I remember right, but I’m pretty sure Williams and Belcher were the guys. I could be wrong though.
insert dead horse picture below
I still think DJ (or after this game, DW) AND Belcher is by far the best combo
this should be the most exciting Chiefs team in years! Most major needs filled with playmakers, and the league's best coaching staff... 10-6 a possibility?
Everyone who is all about Demorrio and Mays
Im watching the game right now for a 3rd time and…On both Eagles scoring drives Demorrio and Mays were the ILB’s. Both displayed poor instincts and could not shed a block. Demorrios sacks were the result of great DLine play and the scheme. He was running free on both plays.
Im not knocking Demorrio to pump up DJ but, if you go back and watch, Demorrio wasn’t all that spectacular overall.
Bob Fescoe reports that DJ and Belcher are playing with the 1st team D this morning in practice.
by Larryemcdaniel on Aug 30, 2010 12:36 PM CDT reply actions
re: McCluster
but he only caught three balls for zero yards on Friday.
To be fair, he made a nice catch up the middle of the field for some considerable yardage toward the end of the first half that got called back for holding by Lilja. it won’t show up on the stat-sheet but it was nice play, and something to look forward to (assuming he can do it without Lilja’s “help” which I think he can. :D) IIRC, we’d have at least had an extra 3pts going into halftime, if that play had stood.
and, It was a pretty weak holding call, IMO
this should be the most exciting Chiefs team in years! Most major needs filled with playmakers, and the league's best coaching staff... 10-6 a possibility?
those are the plays im looking for in the passing game.
If Cassel can stay poised in the pocket, he’ll have Bowe, Chambers, and McCluster streaking over the middle all day.
by Larryemcdaniel on Aug 30, 2010 1:27 PM CDT via mobile up reply actions
Eric Berry...
Granted, he didn’t really help or hurt himself… but here’s to a guy playing like he’s getting paid. I think we’ve taken for granted what this kid is doing. We expected so much out of him, and now that we’re seeing it start to show, we’re hardly even noticing it. He’s brought a whole new dimension to this Chiefs defense, and as the year goes on we’ll see more and more of it. The tackle he made where he took down the FB and the RB… taking Desean Jackson out of the game on the very first play… using his superior athleticism to bat down the Kolb pass… the diving attempt to pick off a tipped pass… Leading the team in tackles. He’s obviously using his speed, athleticism and instincts to get in on pretty much every single play.
I’m not trying to build the hype back up. But Berry is for real. I can’t remember the last time we had a first round draft pick show up so early his rookie year. And I understand it’s not all him, and that he doesn’t make this defense by himself (props to Studie, Flowers, Williams, etc.)… but he’s becoming the face of this revamped defense. When you get a guy like him (a rookie, no less!) to go out and start making plays like he is, it’s energizing the defense. Studebaker’s doing it too.
I’m going to make a prediction on our D now… it’s going to be a top 12 defensive unit in 2010. Call me crazy, call me a kool-aid drunkard, but that’s the way I see it. We have play makers now. We have the coaching now. And we have the face, the guy that will elevate his teammates by what he does on the field.
Bring on the season.
"Reach for new elevation; and see just how high we can go. Full blown determination; will take us further than we know. My own anticipation; keeps the fire from burning out, It's time for domination... no one can ever take us down" - Pillar - "For the Love of the Game"
by Red N Gold Beast on Aug 30, 2010 1:40 PM CDT reply actions
You're crazy, RNG.
And I’m the one who wants to see progress the most. =)
Short zone pass coverage by our LB’s will be our downfall. It hasn’t been good in the preseason. The run D (while it seems improved) hasn’t convinced me yet that they will do the required 180 from last year.
You say top 20, I might be able to be convinced. Top 12 is going to take much more.
"I don't know if I want to go to New York. They'll have to pay me a lot more money because I like it here in Kansas City." -- Roger Maris
I can see that...
The middle of the field may be our weak spot… but I saw some good plays in coverage by Williams, but you’re the expert… can’t wait for your analysis.
And again, I hate to hype this up, but let’s see what happens if you repeatedly try to exploit the middle of the field with a dominant SS… someone’s going to get picked, fumble or hurt.
As for run D, we’ll see. Again, I think elevated play by Berry, Studie, Hali, etc. will help this defense. I think this D is going to make big strides… we’ll see.
"Reach for new elevation; and see just how high we can go. Full blown determination; will take us further than we know. My own anticipation; keeps the fire from burning out, It's time for domination... no one can ever take us down" - Pillar - "For the Love of the Game"
by Red N Gold Beast on Aug 30, 2010 2:16 PM CDT up reply actions
You crazy kool-aid drunkard, you!
((For the record, I think we’ll be in the top half of the NFL on defense))
I just wanted to call you a crazy kool-aid drunkard.
Chiefs - back in the playoffs in 2011.
wait it doesn't take 3 years for a safety to develop?
The picture is a Chiefs pumpkin, yeah that is right a Chiefs pumpkin.
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