Not the perfect start.
The Kansas City Chiefs endured a tough first game against the Los Angeles Chargers in Brazil.
After some time to reflect, here are the five key takeaways from the Kansas City Chiefs Week 1 loss in Sao Paolo.
Little to no pressure on Herbert
Justin Herbert diced up the Chiefs’ defense for 318 yards and three touchdowns.
The secondary looked especially vulnerable, with safeties Chamarri Conner and Jaden Hicks struggling throughout the night as the Chargers repeatedly converted on third-and-long.
The Chiefs managed two sacks – both from linebacker Drue Tranquil – but Herbert was largely unfazed, often finding wide-open receivers with no defender within 10 yards.
This was highlighted by the Chargers’ efficiency on third down, converting 7-of-13, compared to the Chiefs’ 5-of-14.
The pass rush was inconsistent as well. Despite an early sack from George Karlaftis, Herbert consistently had ample time in the pocket. He allowed the Chargers to move the ball down the field with ease.
This was shown especially in the final Chargers drive. Herbert dropping back on 3rd and 14, Chris Jones lacking pass rush lane discipline allowing Herbert to rush 19 yards and slide for first down and, in effect, end the game.
Very slow start
The Chiefs came out flat, and the Chargers took full advantage, jumping to a quick 10-0 lead behind a touchdown from wide receiver Quentin Johnston.
Kansas City looked rattled following the absence of their number one receiver, Xavier Worthy, who exited with a shoulder injury after three offensive snaps, and opened the game with three consecutive punts.
Although the Chiefs showed life in the second half with three scoring drives, they made things difficult for themselves. If not for Harrison Butker’s 59-yard field goal to close the first half, the Chargers could have run away with the game entirely.
Lack of a run game
The Chiefs failed to establish any ground attack.
Isiah Pacheco logged just four carries in the first half and only one in the second. Together, Pacheco and Kareem Hunt combined for a mere 39 yards on 10 carries.
The Chiefs without a reliable run game had to rely on a one-dimensional, pass-heavy attack, especially while trailing.
Offensive penalties
Offensive miscues were costly. The Chiefs committed 10 penalties on offense, with right tackle Jawaan Taylor responsible for four of them.
The offensive line, which is supposed to be one of the team’s strengths, had a shaky outing.
Quarterback Patrick Mahomes faced heavy pressure, particularly from the left guard spot manned by Kingsley Suamataia. This will need to be cleaned up quickly with the Eagles visiting Arrowhead next week.
Pass rush discipline
The Chiefs had opportunities to swing momentum with defensive stops but lacked the discipline and consistency to capitalise.
Missed assignments and over-pursuit allowed Herbert to extend plays and sustain drives.
Summary
Despite the slow start, Patrick Mahomes eventually grew into the game and delivered a strong performance.
He accounted for both a passing and rushing touchdown, while also leading the team on the ground with six carries for 59 yards – showcasing his trademark scrambling ability.
Mahomes made several spectacular plays, including a mid-air flip pass to JuJu Smith-Schuster and a fourth down rocket to Hollywood Brown—who should have scored a walk-in touchdown.
Brown, despite early drops, rebounded to lead all Chiefs pass catchers with 10 receptions for 99 yards.
But while the Chiefs showed flashes of brilliance, there were far too many lapses against the Chargers. If they carry this lackadaisical approach into next week’s match-up against the Eagles at Arrowhead, starting the season 0-2 is a very real possibility.
