Arrowhead Pride - Chiefs beat Texans: Full coverageKansas City Chiefs news, rumors, roster updates and more.https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/46893/arrowheadpride_f.png2015-09-15T12:17:12-05:00http://www.arrowheadpride.com/rss/stream/90822802015-09-15T12:17:12-05:002015-09-15T12:17:12-05:00Grading Andy Reid: Week 1
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<figcaption>Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Kansas City Chiefs coach Andy Reid is one of the most successful coaches in the history of the NFL but his coaching style has left many fans not only ecstatic but also befuddled and downright upset. Offensively, Reid is touted as an innovative and brilliant coaching mind. At the same time, he has also been known to make head scratching game management decisions.</p>
<p>What if we were to create a grading scale to evaluate Reid and use it throughout the season? It may shed some insight into some of Reid's decisions. If we do this every week, we could see some trends come up. Or we could see nothing. However, it's worth a shot to try and track.</p>
<p>Since this is the first week of the Reid evaluation, let's lay down the grading scale. As a professor at a major university, I do have some grading skills but there is always room for improvement. In fact, I'll go ahead and be honest and say I've never graded an NFL head coach before - let alone a potential HOF head coach. So take these grades as they are and let's have a little fun evaluating Reid.</p>
<p>Here is the grading scale we will be using this season. (If we find flaws / improvements with our grading scale as the season goes we can adjust.)</p>
<table border="0" align="center" style="text-align: center;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;"><b>Grading Criteria</b></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><b>Points Possible</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">Player Preparedness/Discipline</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">10</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">Challenges</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">15</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">Offensive Play Calling</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">25</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">Game Altering Decisions</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">30</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;">Clock Management</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">20</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p> </p>
<p>There are a total of 100 points possible per game (how convenient.) Let's describe these in a little more detail.</p>
<p><b>Player Preparedness / Discipline: </b> Some games the players come out flat (see: Titans, 2014 season opener). Some games players commit a number of sloppy penalties. These are all items that would fall under the Player Preparedness / Discipline criteria.</p>
<p><b>Challenges: </b>This is simply an evaluation of Reid's success with coaching challenges.</p>
<p><b>Offensive Play Calling: </b>Since Reid is calling the plays on offense, this is a very important factor for his coaching grade. Some games Reid seems to be on fire with his calls (see: Texans, first half) and other games the offense appears to have a hard time getting the offense to put points on the board (see: Texans, second half). Compared to other head coaches Reid is one of the best offensive play callers but the grade for the offensive play calling will be based on Reid's ability and results.</p>
<p><b>Game Altering Decisions: </b> These include decisions that seriously alter the outcome of the game. The "big" plays each game. Choosing to punt on 4th and 1 instead of going for it, choosing to go for two instead of the extra point or deciding to kick a long field goal would all fall under this criteria.</p>
<p><b>Clock Management: </b>Clock management has been one of Reid's biggest criticisms throughout his career. This grade will be based on his use of time outs.</p>
<p>Now that we have an explanation of all the grading criteria, let's take a look at how Reid performed in Week 1 against the Texans.</p>
<h3><b>Player Preparedness/Discipline</b></h3>
<p><b></b>The Chiefs came out focused and well prepared for this game. Here are factors that show they were well prepared:</p>
<ol>
<li><span>The Chiefs did not turn the ball over.</span></li>
<li><span>The Chiefs committed two penalties. One of the penalties was a fairly common pass interference The other was a holding call on Jah Reid who was facing JJ Watt - you're excused Jah, can't say we blame you. There were no sloppy penalties, false starts, offsides, etc. The team was prepared.</span></li>
<li><span>The entire team came out passionately and played with visible high effort on both offense and defense.</span></li>
<li><span>They also executed the offense well enough for a three score lead and appeared highly focused.</span></li>
</ol>
<div><i>Player Preparedness/Discipline Grade: 10/10</i></div>
<div><br></div>
<h3><b>Challenges</b></h3>
<div>Reid made one challenge in the game on a play where Derrick Johnson tackled Ryan Mallett right at the first down marker. Reid ultimately lost the challenge. It was a bit of an awkward play where Mallett appeared to be entering a sideways slide. The play was on a third down and overturning the ruling could have been a very good outcome for the Chiefs so it was<b> worth the risk</b>. It was a good risk but Reid lost the challenge so some points had to be taken off.</div>
<div><br></div>
<div><i>Challenges Grade: 12/15</i></div>
<div><br></div>
<h3><b>Offensive Play Calling</b></h3>
<div>Reid was dialing them up in the first half as the offense looked like world beaters against a very good Houston defense. The <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/lookit/2015/9/13/9319417/travis-kelce-celebrates-td-with-perfect-wind-up-punch">42 yard pass play to Kelce</a> (loved the Falcon punch celebration by the way) was a brilliant play call that left Kelce unbelievably wide open. The second half was a completely different story however. The offense focused on running the ball and even though the score did get a tiny bit close, the Chiefs were unable to score in the second half. There are a couple of reasons why this may have happened: 1) Reid was content with just running down the clock and not piling up on the score and 2) Reid didn't want to tip any more plays than he had to before a big game and short week against Denver. All things considered, there was a brilliant first half and a 'safe' second half that didn't output any points - so Reid has to be deducted some for the second half.</div>
<div><br></div>
<div><i>Offensive Play Calling Grade: 20/25</i></div>
<div><br></div>
<h3><b>Game Altering Decisions</b></h3>
<div>Below are a list of key plays in the game where Reid could have made a number of decisions as well as the outcomes. As the season progresses we will total these decisions and see if we can't find consistencies in Reid's decision making.</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>4th and 8 - 1st Quarter 11:23 on the HOU 43: This is <i>borderline </i>go for it land. Going for a 4th and 8 would have not been a great decision. Another alternative would have been a 60 yard field goal by Santos - also not a great idea. Ultimately Colquitt made an amazing punt and the ball was downed at the seven yard line. Reid made the right decision.</li>
<li><span>Extra Point - 1st Quarter 10:27. With the Chiefs leading 6 - 0 Reid goes for the extra point and not the 2 point conversion. Makes sense.</span></li>
<li><span>Extra Point - 1st Quarter 4:39. With the Chiefs leading 13 - 0 Reid once again makes the right decision by kicking the extra point.</span></li>
<li><span>4th and 7 - 2nd Quarter 10:29. The Chiefs led 14 - 6 and the FG was a 27 yard attempt. This is also an easy decision for Reid. The Chiefs made the FG to push it to two scores.</span></li>
<li><span>4th and 8 - 2nd Quarter 6:25. Leading 17 - 6 Reid chose to attempt a 48 yard FG. Santos makes the kick. This was once again an easy decision.</span></li>
<li><span>Extra Point - 2nd Quarter 5:01. Up 26 - 6 the extra point attempt is a no-brainer.</span></li>
<li><span>4th and 7 - 3rd Quarter 8:25 on the HOU 37: This is once again a play in go for it land. Reid chose to punt the ball over going for it. He also chose to punt the ball over a 54 yard FG attempt by Santos. Colquitt punted and put the ball in a good spot but the play ended in a touchback. Choosing not to go with the FG may show Reid has limited faith in Santos (who did miss a 51-yard FG later), or maybe he didn't want to take a risk with a 27 - 9 lead.</span></li>
<li>4th and 1 - 4th Quarter 6:16 on the HOU 32. With the score 27 - 9 Reid chose to go with the FG. In a closer game Reid may have chosen to go for it. Ultimately Santos missed the FG. If Reid chooses to go for it <i>and converted</i> it would have put Houston in a bad spot. We'll take off a point for this because the results were not good.</li>
<li><span>4th and 1 - 4th Quarter 2:55 on the KAN 44. Once again Reid chose to be conservative with a 27 - 17 lead and punted the ball. Outcome: Houston starts on their own 10 yard line. Good decision with that defense and that lead.</span></li>
</ul>
</div>
<div><i>Game Altering Decisions Grade: 29/30</i></div>
<div><br></div>
<h3><b>Clock Management</b></h3>
<div>The Chiefs used three time outs on defense. Most of these were likely used for getting the right call on defense. The other time out was called on the offensive side of the ball. Reid chose to run the clock down with a number of run plays in the second half. Overall there were no issues with Reid's clock management.</div>
<div><br></div>
<div><i>Clock Management Grade: 20/20</i></div>
<div><br></div>
<h3><b>Overall Grade: 91/100</b></h3>
<div>Reid did great in the first week against Houston. He gets an A according to our grading scale. Hopefully the trend continues against Denver.</div>
<div><br></div>
<div>Below are some more statistics that we will compile throughout the year to get an idea of Reid's decision making process. As the data grows we'll use more visually pleasing graphs.</div>
<div><br></div>
<div>A few notes:</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li><span>'Go for it' represents going for it on a 4th and short in no mans land (anywhere between the opposing 30 and 45-yard line).</span></li>
<li><span>Only punts where the field goal was between 50 to 55 yards were considered.</span></li>
<li><span>FGs less than 50 yards are assumed to be taken.</span></li>
<li><span>A two point conversion should be taken in instances where two points puts the team within a single score, or above a single score. For instance if the Chiefs are up by one point and have the choice for an extra point or to go for two - the score should dictate the Chiefs to go for two.</span></li>
</ul>
</div>
<h3><b>Season Stats</b></h3>
<div>Chose to 'go for it' - 0 out of 2 opportunities</div>
<div>Chose to 'go for it' with the lead - 0 out of 2 opportunities</div>
<div>Chose to 'go for it' while behind or tied - 0 out of 0 opportunities</div>
<div>Chose to punt within FG range - 1 out of 2 opportunities</div>
<div>Chose to punt within FG range with the lead - 1 out of 2 opportunities</div>
<div>Chose to punt within FG range without the lead - 0 out of 0 opportunities.</div>
<div>Chose to kick 50+ yard FG vs punt - 1 out of 2 opportunities</div>
<div>Chose to kick 50+ yard FG vs punt with the lead - 1 out of 2 opportunities</div>
<div>Chose to kick 50+ yard FG vs punt without the lead - 0 out of 0 opportunities</div>
<div>Chose to go for two when the score dictated to do so - 0 out of 0 opportunities</div>
<div><br></div>
https://www.arrowheadpride.com/2015/9/15/9327509/grades-andy-reid-kansas-city-chiefs-coach-houston-texansGary McKenzie2015-09-15T11:24:02-05:002015-09-15T11:24:02-05:00Chiefs use play action to create big plays
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<figcaption>Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p><b style="font-style: italic;">IF </b>the <a href="https://www.arrowheadpride.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Kansas City Chiefs</a> consistently demonstrate the ability to pass the ball like they did in the first half against the <a href="https://www.battleredblog.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Houston Texans</a> then we need to begin considering that this team has a higher ceiling than the nine-win, one-and-done that many have expected out of them.</p>
<p>The offense came back to Earth in the second half but the way they started got my attention. As ESPN's Adam Teicher pointed out, the Chiefs had two passes of more than 42 yards last season and neither of them came until December (remember that heave to <span>Jason Avant</span> last year?). This year, it took just 10 plays to pass that as <span>Alex Smith</span> hit <span>Travis Kelce</span> for a 42-yard touchdown.</p>
<p>There were a few passes that stood out to me:</p>
<p><b><span>The</span><a href="https://twitter.com/MattBowen41/status/643511967253184512" style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; background-color: #ffffff;"> first touchdown pass to Kelce</a>.</b> <span>Smith had to throw a high ball in a spot where only Kelce could get it. Kelce is a big body who understands his leverage so give him a shot to go up and get it.</span></p>
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<p><span><b>A 20-yard out to Jeremy Maclin</b>. You see this all the time from quarterbacks named Manning or Rodgers. Smith </span><i style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">can</i><span> do this consistently because Maclin is a terrific route-runner who can create separation. That wasn't the case with </span><span>Dwayne Bowe</span><span> last year and this play was a great example of that. This is an anticipation throw - the screengrab below shows Alex winding up while Maclin is still faking inside before going back outside.</span></p>
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<p><span><b>The incomplete deep left pass to Jeremy Maclin</b>. Incomplete or not, the Chiefs need to take that shot at least a couple of times per game for the pass interference calls alone. It's first down here, one one one with your $55 million man. No reason not to try this.</span></p>
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</figure>
</p>
<h3>Is it a coincidence the Chiefs three longest plays came on play action?</h3>
<p>Probably not. According to stats from Pro Football Focus, <span>Alex Smith</span> was 8-of-11 on play action for 121 yards and two touchdowns on 13 drop backs.</p>
<p>The Chiefs play action is dangerous because they have a back in <span>Jamaal Charles</span> who the defense has to respect. The Chiefs also line up with multiple tight ends regularly making you pay extra attention to the rushing attack because Kansas City has no problem choosing to burn you with Jamaal instead of Alex* stretching the field. And as it turns out, when you rush for more yards per carry than any back in NFL history defenses notice that.</p>
<p>I'm not convinced Alex Smith makes these passes last year. Maybe I'm just misremembering to make the Chiefs look better (tis the season) but the eye test told me that the Chiefs opened it up more and the results - 27 first half points - showed what happens when the Chiefs do that.</p>
<p>In summary, I liked the passing game in the Texans game and hope to see more of that vs. Denver.</p>
<p><i>*#WellActually, we know Andy is gonna Andy at some point and just start passing the ball no matter what but whatever. </i></p>
https://www.arrowheadpride.com/2015/9/15/9329291/chiefs-use-play-action-to-create-big-plays-on-offense-vs-texansJoel Thorman2015-09-15T08:14:02-05:002015-09-15T08:14:02-05:00A nod to the Chiefs mad scientist
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<figcaption>Christian Petersen/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>There's a lot to like from the win over the <a href="https://www.battleredblog.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Texans</a>. Alex Smith played well. The offensive line performed above expectations. Jeremy Maclin's presence was felt. Andy Reid out-coached O'Brien to an almost comical degree in the first half. <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/lookit/2015/9/13/9319417/travis-kelce-celebrates-td-with-perfect-wind-up-punch">Travis Kelce went all Travis Kelce.</a></p>
<p>I could go on, but I just have to take a second to shout out to Bob Sutton. The <a href="https://www.arrowheadpride.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Chiefs</a> defensive coordinator was somewhat maligned after his first season with the Chiefs (the playoff loss to the <a href="https://www.stampedeblue.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Colts</a> left some seriously sour taste in our mouths), but the majority of fans came around to him as the defense blossomed last season despite the absence of some key contributors.</p>
<p>What I like about Sutton is that he does a good job of mixing up the simple and the complex. He isn't constantly blitzing, nor is he afraid to do so if the situation calls for it. He seems aware that he's got the personnel up front to get pressure on any given snap without creative scheming (the Chiefs defense is at times quite vanilla). But man, does he like to get exotic when he mixes things up.</p>
<p>You all remember this play.</p>
<blockquote lang="en" class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Fantastic blitz from Sutton. Overload left side w/ scary rushers, drop 'em all and send a CB and DJ on other side. <a href="http://t.co/UuDrEnx8fI">pic.twitter.com/UuDrEnx8fI</a></p>
— Seth Keysor (@RealMNchiefsfan) <a href="https://twitter.com/RealMNchiefsfan/status/643450678614953985">September 14, 2015</a>
</blockquote>
<p>This is a wonderful example of a defensive coordinator mixing up looks and creating a situation in which the opposing offense has absolutely no idea where the pressure is coming from. Take a look at what Texans QB Brian Hoyer was looking at just prior to the snap.</p>
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<p>There are a lot of things going on here, but the focus for me is the misdirection. Sutton has <span>Dee Ford</span> and <span>Justin Houston</span> lined up ready to rush, a scary proposition for any quarterback. Additionally, <span>Josh Mauga</span> is lined up like he's ready to blitz, and Howard is lined up right across from the center (zero tech if you're into terminology and stuff).</p>
<p>So what you've got is four rushers overloading the left side. The Texans play call is for the TE to go quickly up the seam, so in theory he SHOULD be open if the Chiefs blitz like they're threatening. In the alternative, the running back is running a quick "stab" route to the middle of the field (the area the TE's route will clear even if the Chiefs don't blitz everyone). The key (in Hoyer's mind as he prepares for the wrong blitz) is to get the ball out quickly to the zone that will be left open by Houston and Ford, whether it's to the TE or RB.</p>
<p> </p>
<div class="pullquote">This is the benefit of talented, versatile personnel combined with a mad scientist.</div>
<p>Another interesting feature of this play is where <span>Allen Bailey</span> is lined up. He's all the way on the outside shoulder of the RT, a highly unusual spot for him. Bailey moves pretty well for a guy with his speed and strength, and so from all appearances it looks like the Chiefs are going for a one on one matchup outside with the RT.</p>
<p>The Texans have a play call drawn up that should beat a heavy blitz from the left side. In fact, Hoyer appears to either audible or at the very least call out protections prior to the snap, pointing at the overload on his left. As I said, the key in his mind is to get the ball quickly to the TE in the "open" zone.</p>
<p>Then the ball is snapped and it all goes to hell for Hoyer.</p>
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<p>Two of the Chiefs who were (in Hoyer's mind) supposed to blitz are not doing so, which means the TE does not come open immediately. What's worse, they're both in the exact zone the RB is headed toward. Though the RB's route will eventually run him away from where Mauga and Houston are, Hoyer doesn't have time for "eventually."</p>
<p>That's because Bailey (who is essentially a decoy on this play) takes his rush inside. The RT follows him, and DJ as well as a TOTALLY unanticipated Phillip Gaines go utterly unblocked. Because Hoyer was looking left to start (at a read he thought would be there but wasn't), he doesn't even have time to try and take advantage of the one on one matchups to his right. He could try and loft a pass toward Gaines's receiver, but Parker has taken over coverage and a loft would be extremely risky.</p>
<p>The only thing Hoyer can do is go fetal and beg for mercy.</p>
<p>The Chiefs have a great group of players on defense, but Bob Sutton deserves credit for putting them in a position to succeed. What a fantastically drawn up play. Additionally, this play is going to give every opposing offensive coordinator something to stare at and mutter about. Because really, any blitz combination works here. And the next time the Chiefs line up there way there's a 90 percent they run it completely differently.</p>
<p>That's the benefit of talented, versatile personnel being combined with a mad scientist. Well done, Sutton.</p>
https://www.arrowheadpride.com/2015/9/15/9323377/chiefs-mad-scientist-bob-sutton-texansMNchiefsfan2015-09-14T16:27:48-05:002015-09-14T16:27:48-05:00Chiefs vs. Texans: The best and worst
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<figcaption>Scott Halleran/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>His Dirkness of <a href="http://www.hisdirkness.com" target="new">HisDirkness.com</a> recaps the Chiefs' 27-20 thwarting of the Texans in the season opener with the best and worst moments of the week</p> <p class="p1">Yesterday was just about perfect, no?</p>
<p class="p2">The NFL was back. Ah, sweet glorious NFL. The Chiefs were rollin' rollin' rollin' rollin' (never too early for a Limp Bizkit reference - I learned that in journalism school). Coaches were <a target="_blank" href="https://twitter.com/cdotharrison/status/643146438260617216">tripping over first down markers</a>. CBS cameras were <a target="_blank" href="https://twitter.com/cdotharrison/status/643147971618476032">perfectly</a> capturing the <a target="_blank" href="https://twitter.com/cdotharrison/status/643143763511021569">misery</a> that must be living in <a target="_blank" href="https://twitter.com/cdotharrison/status/643141474528301056">Houston</a>. Refs had to be separated by … other refs. Philip Gaines was <a target="_blank" href="http://www.arrowheadpride.com/2015/9/13/9319405/chiefs-cb-phillip-gaines-puked-on-the-field">leaving it all <strike>out on</strike> over the field</a>. And a Chipotle burrito had worked its way into my first 15 scripted plays of the day. What a time to be alive.</p>
<p class="p1">If only Flacco hadn't piccadilly'd away that game later. Oh well, 219 yards of offense and 4.4 yards per Peyton attempt (who's a bit of a Limp Bizkit himself, these days) ain't about to get the job done in three days time.</p>
<p class="p1">Whew, three days. Can't wait to see the other 79,450 members of my family. It's been too long.</p>
<p class="p1">Lets mess around and get loud with it, yeah?</p>
<h3 style="text-align: center;"><b>The Best And Worst w/ His Dirkness</b></h3>
<p class="p2" style="text-align: left;"><b>Best barometer of the 2014 Kansas City Chiefs</b> - 3rd down conversions. It was everything for this team last season. You could essentially look at their 3rd down numbers and determine how well the offense (and thus, the team) had played that day. I believe this occurred for a few reasons - The offense was limited in its big play potential (something about receivers and touchdowns, I dunno, my short term memory ain't great, y'all) and the defense wasn't forcing turnovers at a high rate (the 2014 Chiefs forced a turnover in only half of their games, multiple turnovers in only three games, and finished tied for last in takeaways on the season). So everything was about slowing the game down. Possession football. Converting on 3rd down. Controlling the clock. Methodical. Efficient. Deliberate. Which was their best chance to win games.</p>
<p class="p2" style="text-align: left;"> </p>
<div class="pullquote">If you can mix what the Chiefs were able to do last year with the talent acquired this offseason, you might have something special on your hands. And I think we do, folks.</div>
<p class="p1">Welp, the Chiefs weren't good on 3rd downs yesterday (3-13). Instead, they won the game with big plays and forcing turnovers. It was very un-2014-like. This could be super important because, if they're able to keep it up, it raises the Chiefs' floor. And by that, I mean, it improves their chances against the dregs of the league (see: Oakland and Tennessee last year). It creates a greater margin of error for them. With more possessions, more plays, more football - the better team has a greater chance of winning the game (which, turned on its head, is why the strategy worked when the Chiefs played superior teams - It brought them down to the Chiefs' level). This is all very scientific, by the way.</p>
<p class="p1">So … what changed? Playmakers, baby. Marcus Peters appears to be a ballhawk (he almost came up with two INTs). DJ is once again leasing space in the opposing backfield. Jeremy Maclin is as advertised (I don't care if it was ruled incomplete, that was an amazing catch down the sideline). And Jamaarles should be fully healthy after not seeming so for most of 2014 (even though he wasn't all that needed yesterday - another strong sign). There's just more talent on the field now. It's apparent. This team had no business being good last season. They were a seven win team (given the injuries) that won nine games. Which is what gave me so much hope coming into this season. If you can mix what the Chiefs were able to do last year with the talent acquired this offseason, you might have something special on your hands. And I think we do, folks.</p>
<p class="p1"><b>Best way for Marcus Peters to handle an INT on the very first play of his career</b> - With a little Costanza showmanship. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EIzei3vAqRY">Alright, that's it for me. Be good everybody!</a></p>
<p class="p1"><b>Best receiver nobody ever talks about</b> - DeAndre Hopkins. All he's done for his career is put up 800 and 1,200, while catching passes from Matt Schaub, Case Keenum, Ryan Fitzmagic, Tom Savage and Ryan Mallett. His fade catch and toe taps were like works of art yesterday. It was a great test for the rookie CB to get his feet wet, with no shame in what he allowed on the day.</p>
<p class="p1"><b>Best way to greet a player on the sideline who probably just sustained a concussion</b> - Repeatedly slapping him in the helmet. Duh.</p>
<p class="p1"><b>Best gameplan</b> - Quick throws. Three step drops. Conservative football! Look, the only way the Chiefs were losing yesterday was if Watt (and to a much, much lesser degree - Clowney) were able to make a big play or two. Sounds easy enough, right? Well, not when you lose your starting LT due to injury and start a dude you just picked up seven days prior. But Jah Reid did aight. He did aiiiight. Watt made his fair share of plays (I was pretty shocked to see he had six TFLs), but I wouldn't say he dominated. That's a job well done. Side note - this is the second straight year the Chiefs have started an OL in the opener after just signing him the week before. And Jah Rule certainly did better than last year's combatant - Mike McGlynn - who, if matched up with JJ Watt, would've more than likely forced the Chiefs to forfeit the game.</p>
<p class="p1"><b>Best play of Travis Kelce's day</b> - When he took the licking but kept on ticking. The deep post was studly. His catch and run was more Graham than Zeus-y. The celebration made babies all over Houston. He iced the game with a jab (step) more exciting than anything Floyd Mayweather has ever thrown. But it was Wet Hot American Kelce's ability to absorb the hit, hang on to the ball, and then find the wherewithal to stiff arm another defender that reeked of bourbon and raw meat.</p>
<p class="p1"><b>Worst play in football</b> - The perimeter run to the short side of the field. Few things in football frustrate me more, like when Andy busted it out on 3rd and 1 early in the second half. It's like giving the defense 15 defenders with the sideline's presence. This one is checkers, not chess.</p>
<p class="p1"><b>Best play in football</b> - The option. Or maybe the new extra point. Definitely one of those.</p>
<p class="p1"><b>Best at it's NFL</b> (or something slightly less dyslexic) - When there are fewer penalties. This is a proven fact (don't forget the Supreme Court's ruling in Dirk v. Goodell of 2013). Just let them play. You may not have caught it yesterday, but on MP-22's INT, Justin Houston blew up his guy (like only the NFL's best defender could), and forced the errant throw, but swung down and lightly grazed Brian Hoyer's helmet on the way down in the process. Now, as insulting as it is to the public's intelligence, this is a Roughing the Passer call that is made every week in the NFL. On the next drive, Hoyer floated one up and PG-23 committed what was most certainly PI in today's NFL. But neither call was made. If they had been made, the refs would've been calling those for the rest of the game, because the precedent had been set. Instead, the Chiefs caught a couple of breaks, the teams adjusted, we got to enjoy the NFL at its best, and I spared my house guests the same "Pass Interference Is Ruining the NFL" speech for the umpteenth time.</p>
<p class="p1"><b>Best special teams player this season</b> - DJ Alexander. Or DJ2, if you will. It felt like he was the first guy down on every punt yesterday. And it shouldn't be lost that the Chiefs need to replace the three best special teams performers in the ENTIRE NFL from 2014 in Josh Martin, Kelcie McCray and Kurt Coleman (PFF).</p>
<p class="p1"><b>Best return</b> - You know who I didn't notice once yesterday (which is a good thing, in this case)? Donald Stephenson. In fact, I don't remember Jadeveon Clowney doin' a damn thang (except for Alex breaking his ankles towards the end of the game). People say the Blue Springs graduate is a better LT than RT. That might be a real thing. PFF definitely liked his day (along with Mitch Morse, who was rated the best center for Week 1). All of which is fantastic news for what remains the biggest concern for this team right now - the offensive line.</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ED3-s3bNmI"></a></p>
<p class="p1">Alright, folks. This should be Arrowhead Stadium on Thursday night. Make it happen.</p>
<p><iframe width="420" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/5ED3-s3bNmI" frameborder="0"></iframe></p>
<p class="p1">His Dirkness</p>
https://www.arrowheadpride.com/2015/9/14/9326205/chiefs-vs-texans-the-best-and-worstHisDirkness2015-09-14T12:44:42-05:002015-09-14T12:44:42-05:00Snap counts: Berry, Poe get plenty of work
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<figcaption>Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>If you didn't think Eric Berry would be playing much in Sunday's game against the Houston Texans then think again. Berry ended up playing in 48 of the 77 defensive snaps in the game, which is higher than I expected it to be. Berry is listed on the second team but in today's NFL with so much passing there are plenty of opportunities to play with more than two safeties on the field.</p>
<p>Meanwhile, Dontari Poe played 32 snaps in the game. This was his first game back after a July 15 surgery for a herniated disc. That's impressive he was able to play that much.</p>
<p>As for the Achilles gang, Derrick Johnson played every snap, which is incredible. Mike DeVito played 26 snaps.</p>
<p>Eric Fisher did get one snap in the game after Donald Stephenson left briefly with a finger injury. Andy Reid said Stephenson is fine.</p>
<p>Check out all the snap counts from the game:</p>
<h3>Offensive line</h3>
<p>G Ben Grubbs: 70</p>
<p>G Laurent Duvernay-Tardif: 70</p>
<p>C Mitch Morse: 70</p>
<p>RT Jah Reid: 70</p>
<p>LT Donald Stephenson: 70</p>
<p>LT Eric Fisher: 1</p>
<h3>Quarterback</h3>
<p>QB Alex Smith: 70</p>
<h3>Wide receiver</h3>
<p>WR Jeremy Maclin: 65</p>
<p>WR Albert Wilson: 57</p>
<p>WR De'Anthony Thomas: 18</p>
<p>WR Jason Avant: 11</p>
<p>WR Chris Conley: 5</p>
<h3>Running back</h3>
<p>RB Jamaal Charles: 52</p>
<p>FB Anthony Sherman: 25</p>
<p>RB Knile Davis: 18</p>
<h3>Tight ends</h3>
<p>TE Travis Kelce: 56</p>
<p>TE Demetrius Harris: 30</p>
<p>TE James O'Shaughnessy: 13</p>
<h3>Cornerback</h3>
<p>CB Phillip Gaines: 77</p>
<p>CB Marcus Peters: 66</p>
<p>CB Jamell Fleming: 61</p>
<h3>Safety</h3>
<p>S Ron Parker: 69</p>
<p>S Husain Abdullah: 66</p>
<p>S Eric Berry: 48</p>
<p>S Tyvon Branch: 7</p>
<h3>Linebacker</h3>
<p>LB Derrick Johnson: 77</p>
<p>LB Justin Houston: 74</p>
<p>LB Tamba Hali: 64</p>
<p>LB Josh Mauga: 50</p>
<p>LB Dee Ford: 16</p>
<h3>Defensive line</h3>
<p>DE Allen Bailey: 68</p>
<p>DE Jaye Howard: 41</p>
<p>NT Dontari Poe: 32</p>
<p>DE Mike DeVito: 26</p>
<p>DE Nick Williams: 5</p>
https://www.arrowheadpride.com/2015/9/14/9324511/chiefs-eric-berry-dontari-poe-get-plenty-of-work-in-opener-againstJoel Thorman2015-09-14T12:20:36-05:002015-09-14T12:20:36-05:00Kelce dedicates TD celebration to 3 Chiefs
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<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/-B2fEKSXD219DWPcTz43tk6fAxE=/0x105:4328x2990/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/47184106/usa-today-8799474.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.arrowheadpride.com/">Kansas City Chiefs</a> TE <span>Travis Kelce</span> had a great game but let's be honest, what we're going to remember from this game is his outstanding touchdown celebration where he wound up and punched the ball into the end zone. It was the perfect celebration in that it was unique AND that it started from 10 yards out.</p>
<p>The other reason it was perfect? Who the celebration aimed at...</p>
<blockquote lang="en" class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><span>Travis Kelce</span> dedicated his "punch" touchdown celebration to <span>Mike DeVito</span>, <span>Derrick Johnson</span> and <span>Eric Berry</span> after the game. (1/2)</p>
— Pete Sweeney (@pgsween) <a href="https://twitter.com/pgsween/status/643229957301403648">September 14, 2015</a>
</blockquote>
<p>
<script charset="utf-8" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script>
</p>
<blockquote lang="en" class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">"I told Mike DeVito that he gives one heck of a punch so I had to wind up to give him one." - TE Travis Kelce (2/2)</p>
— Pete Sweeney (@pgsween) <a href="https://twitter.com/pgsween/status/643230015333756928">September 14, 2015</a>
</blockquote>
<p>
<script charset="utf-8" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script>
That's awesome. All three of those players are coming back from issues last year -- the Achilles for DJ and DeVito and cancer for Berry. It speaks to the family atmosphere that the Chiefs are always talking about. Sure, every team talks about that but it sure seems there's something to it with the Chiefs.</p>
<p>You can re-live Kelce's celebration here....</p>
<blockquote lang="en" class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The football gods are the worst. Travis <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kelce?src=hash">#Kelce</a> has awesome touchdown celebration and now he is hurt. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Chiefs?src=hash">#Chiefs</a> <a href="http://t.co/clpUa55ZnV">http://t.co/clpUa55ZnV</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NFL?src=hash">#NFL</a></p>
— Ben Krimmel (@BenKrimmel) <a href="https://twitter.com/BenKrimmel/status/643119963256041472">September 13, 2015</a>
</blockquote>
<p>
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https://www.arrowheadpride.com/2015/9/14/9323971/travis-kelce-touchdown-celebration-eric-berry-derrick-johnson-mike-devitoJoel Thorman2015-09-14T10:35:02-05:002015-09-14T10:35:02-05:00Chiefs may have something with Mitch Morse
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<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/-UWPMAlPbVjVnKoRB1-9YHWkNxM=/124x0:1474x900/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/47181288/morese.0.0.png" />
</figure>
<p>Full disclosure: I'm sick as a dog and it's already 11:30 at night. This is going to be shorter than normal.</p>
<p>That said, was there any way I WASN'T going to write an article tonight? Of course not. Not after seeing the way the <a href="https://www.arrowheadpride.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Chiefs</a> were able to handle the <a href="https://www.battleredblog.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Texans</a> (no, I don't think the game was as close as the score. Yes, they scared me JUST a little near the end). I wasn't going to be able to sleep regardless, so I figured I would knock my first re-watch out of the way immediately.</p>
<p>And where else to begin but with <span>Mitch Morse</span>. The Chiefs rookie center played well this preseason, but was seeing his first real NFL action. And lucky him, he got to go against one of the better front seven's in the country in the Texans, featuring a mammoth-sized NT and a thing called Watt.</p>
<p>A great deal of the season is going to depend on how the offensive line holds up, and Morse is a big part of that. And so I tracked every snap of Morse to see how he did in his baptism by fire. In doing so, I used my regular offensive line grading style. Quick recap of what I track</p>
<p>1) Pass Block Wins- If you kept your guy at bay, picked up a blitz / stunt, or came to the rescue of a fellow OL getting beat, that's a Pass Block Win.</p>
<p>2) Pass Block Loss- Basically the opposite of a win. Get beat individually or miss an assignment? Loss.</p>
<p>3) Run Block Win- If you don't understand what an offensive lineman winning in run blocking looks like, you're probably on the wrong website.</p>
<p>4) Run Block Loss- See Number 3</p>
<p>5) Neutral Plays- When the lineman doesn't really BEAT anyone, but doesn't get beat himself. Could be a quick throw, or a relatively uneventful double team, or a play immediately going the other direction (leaving the lineman with no one to block).</p>
<p>6) Loss Percentage- The percentage of total plays in run or pass blocking the lineman "lost." Obviously, the lower the number the better the game. Everyone has a different "percentage" that's acceptable to them. Me, if someone is getting a loss more than 10% of the time I'm concerned.</p>
<p>7) Pressures/Hits/Sacks Allowed</p>
<p>I did not track wins and losses on screen plays, so those plays are out of the snap count for right now. We'll talk about those in a little bit. Here's what Morse's "numbers" looked like</p>
<p>(Side note; my snap count numbers will be a tad off, as I counted a couple of plays where a penalty nullified the play but both teams played it out. It's still a relevant snap for the sake of analysis even if it didn't count)</p>
<table width="780" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" border="0">
<colgroup> <col width="106" style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 3876; width: 80pt;"> <col width="118" style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 4315; width: 89pt;"> <col width="107" style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 3913; width: 80pt;"> <col width="111" style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 4059; width: 83pt;"> <col width="62" style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 2267; width: 47pt;"> <col width="138" span="2" style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 5046; width: 104pt;"> </colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td width="106" height="20" style="height: 15.0pt; width: 80pt;">Pass Block Wins</td>
<td width="118" style="width: 89pt;">Pass Block Losses</td>
<td width="107" style="width: 80pt;">Run Block Wins</td>
<td width="111" style="width: 83pt;">Run Block Losses</td>
<td width="62" style="width: 47pt;">Neutral</td>
<td width="138" style="width: 104pt;">Loss Percentage</td>
<td width="138" style="width: 104pt;">Sacks/Hits/Pressures</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;">
<td height="20" align="right" style="height: 15.0pt;">14</td>
<td align="right">3</td>
<td align="right">17</td>
<td align="right">2</td>
<td align="right">26</td>
<td align="right" class="xl65">8.06%</td>
<td>1 (pressure)</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p> </p>
<p>While in some cases numbers lie, here they tell the story well. Morse played even better than I'd thought he had on my first viewing. Considering the issues the Chiefs had running the ball I figured Morse was struggling there, but he actually did quite well (the failures were most often from people trying to block <span>J.J. Watt</span>, which I'm certain does not surprise you).</p>
<p>Morse's loss percentage is at a place I'm comfortable with, and he had many snaps where he directly contributed to the success of the play. He gave up one pressure I could attribute to him directly, a missed assignment on a delayed blitz. Beyond that his pass protection made me smile all game.</p>
<p>Morse seems like an extremely intelligent player. He's always keeping his head up and helping out the rest of the line, and he rarely goes long without finding a defender to engage. And very importantly for a line that struggled with stunts and delayed blitzes, he was nearly flawless in that area of the game.</p>
<p> </p>
<blockquote lang="en" class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Keeps his head up and doesn't get over-engaged elsewhere, so sees stunt coming. Doing the job, Morse. <a href="http://t.co/YZB8A20coj">pic.twitter.com/YZB8A20coj</a></p>
— Seth Keysor (@RealMNchiefsfan) <a href="https://twitter.com/RealMNchiefsfan/status/643276320453951489">September 14, 2015</a>
</blockquote>
<p>
<script charset="utf-8" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script>
</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Morse picked up multiple stunts and delayed blitzes without any trouble. It's fantastic to see.</p>
<p>Additionally, Morse demonstrated more than adequate strength to hold up at the point of attack. He's not overpowering the way some (generally larger) centers are, but he went toe-to-toe with Wilfork (who weighs 325 pounds the same way I weighed 180 pounds when I graduated college but am now 215. The man is at least 375) on more than one occasion and didn't get overpowered once.</p>
<p>Remember that one GIF Texans fans were so eager to show us when they were explaining how Wilfork would dominate Morse? Didn't happen one time. Wilfork bull rushed him at least twice and both times Morse was able to set his anchor and hold his ground (well, he was being moved back, but VERY slowly. A sack would've taken roughly two minutes or so, and I can't think of a single play call that requires that much time in the pocket).</p>
<p>Morse's punch is nothing to write home about, but he was able to jar linebackers and linemen a few times. Mostly, though, his blocking consists of being in the right place; between the defender and the ball. He's more a technician than a brute, and thus perfect for what we need from our center.</p>
<p>Morse's greatest asset, though (outside of his seemingly high football IQ) is his ability to get out in space. He was the guy going down field on multiple runs and screens and did marvelously. I mean, try to watch this and not get amped up.</p>
<p> </p>
<blockquote lang="en" class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I found the ghost of <span>Casey Wiegmann</span>, guys. 3rd "win" on a screen so far. <a href="http://t.co/yQPrd6txNv">pic.twitter.com/yQPrd6txNv</a></p>
— Seth Keysor (@RealMNchiefsfan) <a href="https://twitter.com/RealMNchiefsfan/status/643272325744365568">September 14, 2015</a>
</blockquote>
<p>Morse is really, really athletic. He moves well in space and shows the agility to lock onto linebackers and even secondary players. He's also got a good sense of when to try and get his hands on someone and when to just chop their legs out from underneath them. He's going to do REALLY well in Reid's offense if Sunday was any indication.</p>
<p>The screen game is going to be something the Chiefs use all year to make aggressive pass rushes pay for over-pursuing Alex Smith. It's one way Andy Reid protects his quarterbacks. Morse was built to play in this system, where he's not often ask to be a mauler but might have to run in space a dozen times a game.</p>
<p>As much fun as the athleticism is to watch, though, my favorite aspect of Morse is his head for the game. I mentioned this earlier, but Morse has a knack for being at the right place at the right time. Smith was running from J.J. Watt all day (that's unavoidable), but the rest of the Texans weren't able to generate much in the way of pressure. That was in large part due to the work Morse was doing (as well as <span>Donald Stephenson</span>, who we'll talk about very soon in a column, I'm sure).</p>
<p>Being a center in the NFL isn't often about being the strongest guy on the field. It's about knowing where to go and what to do. And when centers do their job (along with the offensive line), you get screen shots like this one.</p>
<p> <figure class="e-image">
<img alt="chiefs" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/FSucXUOzK8H8ZKwS2knb3HWFHKs=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/4058552/Chiefs_Pic_1.0.png">
</figure>
</p>
<p>This is the first touchdown throw to Kelce (what a fun sentence that is to say!). As you can see, Smith is getting ready to wind up and Kelce is about to make his break inside.</p>
<p>For starters, let's admire the fact that Smith has already made the decision to let it fly despite Kelce not being technically "open" yet. He clearly trusts Kelce to win that matchup, and he should. But we'll talk about Smith another day.</p>
<p>For today, look at all that room. Smith could sit down and play a hand of solitaire before deciding who to throw to. This isn't the <a href="https://www.musiccitymiracles.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Titans</a> front four. This is a very, very tough Texans group. Smith has tons of space to survey the field and step into his throw. The result? A touchdown.</p>
<p>And that wasn't the only Kelce touchdown Morse recorded an assist on. This one is beautiful.</p>
<p> </p>
<blockquote lang="en" class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">You probably didn't notice Morse make a nice play on the 2nd Kelce TD. Left alone, sprints to help Harris vs. Watt. <a href="http://t.co/JIFRuS9wIr">pic.twitter.com/JIFRuS9wIr</a></p>
— Seth Keysor (@RealMNchiefsfan) <a href="https://twitter.com/RealMNchiefsfan/status/643267115881918464">September 14, 2015</a>
</blockquote>
<p>That's how you help out your teammate. Yes, Smith had about as easy a throw as you can possibly get to Kelce down the field, but it doesn't happen if he's got Watt screaming in his face.</p>
<p>This play demonstrates really well the game Morse had. Nothing dominant, and nothing that's going to earn him a Pro Bowl nod or the adulation of national pundits. But he does exactly what needs to be done for the play to succeed. Which is what he did the vast majority of his snaps against the Texans.</p>
<p>Baptism by fire, and Morse came through unscathed. With another tough test in Denver, I hope it's a preview of what's to come for the youngster.</p>
https://www.arrowheadpride.com/2015/9/14/9321605/mitch-morse-vince-wilfork-kansas-city-chiefs-houston-texansMNchiefsfan2015-09-14T10:00:07-05:002015-09-14T10:00:07-05:00Chiefs had 5 new starters on the o-line
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<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/7iwwE6zfvHXYJwlw_w4x7YtzQQk=/0x0:3450x2300/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/47181262/usa-today-8800513.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>The <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.arrowheadpride.com/">Kansas City Chiefs</a> starting offensive line has been a question mark all offseason. We found ourselves championing one line only to see a player get hurt. Or a player get beat out by another player. Or a player switching positions. Whatever it was, we haven't been able to get a handle on the Chiefs offensive line.</p>
<p>That continued this week with<a href="http://www.kansascity.com/sports/spt-columns-blogs/sam-mellinger/article35145666.html"> the Eric Fisher situation </a>here the Chiefs announced on Monday he would be the starting right tackle only to see him not play and newcomer <span>Jah Reid</span> start instead.</p>
<p>It's not just one position though. Check out the difference between last year's Week 1 line and this year's:</p>
<blockquote lang="en" class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Rewatching Chiefs-<a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.battleredblog.com/">Texans</a>. This is pretty amazing .. <a href="http://t.co/IRdlK80DHq">pic.twitter.com/IRdlK80DHq</a></p>
— Sean Pendergast (@SeanTPendergast) <a href="https://twitter.com/SeanTPendergast/status/643428931970818048">September 14, 2015</a>
</blockquote>
<p>
<script charset="utf-8" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script>
I mean, that's incredible. JJ Watt did his thing and racked up stats but the Chiefs line was good enough, especially when you put that into the context of pretty much everyone expecting them to get destroyed against the Texans front seven.</p>
<p>LT Donald Stephenson, LG Ben Grubbs and C <span>Mitch Morse</span> (especially Morse) played well. RG Laurent Duvernay-Tardif and RT Jah Reid struggled more but did enough for the Chiefs to open the field in the passing game and win the game.</p>
https://www.arrowheadpride.com/2015/9/14/9322723/the-kansas-city-chiefs-turned-over-every-spot-on-their-offensive-lineJoel Thorman