While Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce dominate the headlines on offense, even they might want to heed defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo’s wisdom. With the Kansas City Chiefs cruising into the playoffs, Spagnuolo is laser-focused on ensuring his players maintain their competitive fire.
Although the Chiefs still face the Denver Broncos in Week 18, their AFC title victory has already secured them a first-round bye. Head coach Andy Reid is likely to rest key starters, offering the team a chance to recuperate. However, an extended break brings the risk of players losing their rhythm and sharpness.
Spagnuolo knows the stakes and delivered a clear directive to his defense: “Do not lose your edge.” His message came during a team meeting, reinforced by a bold PowerPoint slide to drive the point home.
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“We’ve been through too much to let up now,” Spagnuolo explained, emphasizing the importance of staying physically and mentally prepared.
Spagnuolo’s game plan to keep the edge
Addressing his unit earlier this week, Steve Spagnuolo challenged his players to reflect on their journey and avoid complacency. “Why would we back off? Why would we lose our edge?” he asked, urging them to balance active rest with preparation.
Spagnuolo emphasized that rest itself is a vital part of preparation. “It’s about how the guys practice, how they care for their bodies physically, and how they rest,” he said.
His message resonated so well that players have begun holding each other accountable. “I hear one guy say to another, ‘Didn’t you hear Coach say that in the meeting?’ That’s what I want-players keeping the edge themselves.”
Mental prep for the win
The Chiefs’ defensive mastermind isn’t stopping at physical readiness. Spagnuolo knows mental sharpness will be just as crucial. With the possibility of facing the Broncos again in the playoffs, he’s urging his defense to absorb every bit of intel now.
“So if I’m sitting there listening to all the information about Denver’s offense, I want to accumulate that to be ready not only for this game but in the chance that we end up playing them again,”Spagnuolo said.
Spagnuolo’s strategy reflects a team that’s not just resting on its laurels but gearing up for another deep playoff run.
