In a Monday night thriller, the Kansas City Chiefs fell to the Jacksonville Jaguars 31-28.
The Chiefs and Jags played out a pulsating game in Prime Time on Monday Night Football.
The spectators present were treated to a back and forth contest, with the game going right down to the wire between two AFC foes in Duval County.
Below are some overarching thoughts from the game.
Penalties, penalties, penalties!
The Chiefs’ offense was its own worst enemy all night. Costly penalties repeatedly stalled drives and wiped away big plays, with Kansas City racking up 13 penalties for 109 yards.
The most frustrating moment came on rookie Brashad Smith’s 63-yard return, which was called back due to an offensive holding penalty on Jack Cochrane.
That play epitomized the Chiefs’ lack of discipline across the board, particularly on special teams – a unit that has traditionally been one of the team’s strengths.
The issues culminated in the closing minutes when kicker Harrison Butker kicked the ball out of bounds, gifting the Jaguars possession at their own 40-yard line.
Instead of forcing Jacksonville to start deep in their territory, the error set the stage for the game-winning drive.
Where is Chris Jones?
One of the biggest concerns continues to be the Chiefs’ inconsistent pass rush. Despite flashes of early success, the defense wilted late, with Chris Jones again struggling to make an impact.
After securing a lucrative new deal, Jones has yet to live up to expectations, tallying just one sack through five games.
Defensive co-ordinator Steve Spagnuolo’s inability to adjust in the second half compounded the issue. Jones’s effort on the game-clinching touchdown from Trevor Lawrence in the waning seconds was of particular concern.
Jones will face warranted criticism for this. He needs to play better!
No spy on Trevor Lawrence
Credit to Trevor Lawrence, who overcame a slow start to deliver a clutch performance when it mattered most.
Lawrence exploited Kansas City’s heavy man coverage, scrambling for 54 rushing yards and two touchdowns, including the dramatic game-winner.
The Chiefs’ refusal to assign a quarterback spy proved costly, especially late in the game.
On the decisive play, Lawrence was tripped before regaining his balance and still managed to weave through the defense for the rushing score. That moment summed up the Chiefs’ defensive frustrations on the night.
Positive outlook
There were some positives from this game for the Chiefs. The offensive line played very well, allowing Mahomes ample time to find receivers down the field and giving up zero sacks. Mahomes used his trademark scrambling ability to extend plays.
Despite a momentum-shifting 99-yard Pick-Six from KC native Devin Lloyd, Mahomes moved the ball down the field at will, finishing with 314 yards and 60 yards on the ground.
Linebacker Nick Bolton delivered a standout defensive effort. This included a crucial goal-line forced fumble on Lawrence. Trent McDuffie also came up with a key interception, while the running game showed real signs of improvement.
Despite the loss, the Chiefs remain a team with immense potential. But discipline and defensive consistency are becoming real concerns.
Cleaning up penalties and getting more production from star players like Chris Jones will be crucial if Kansas City wants to reassert itself as an AFC powerhouse.
The positives on offense provide encouragement, but the margin for error is shrinking as the season progresses.
