The recent game between the Carolina Panthers and Kansas City Chiefs left fans with more questions than answers. Chiefs Kingdom, once confident in their team’s dominance, might need to reassess their expectations. While Patrick Mahomes delivered a commendable performance with 269 passing yards and three touchdowns, the defense and other offensive issues have raised concerns about the team’s trajectory this season.
The Chiefs’ defense, once a force to be reckoned with, has shown significant cracks. Allowing over 300 yards and 14 points to a struggling Panthers team is alarming. Chris Jones and Nick Bolton, two of their top defensive talents, have not been making the impactful plays they’re known for.
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“The defense is not as good as last year,” said Chris Simms, former NFL quarterback and co-host of Pro Football Talk, during an appearance on the Dan Patrick Show. He added, “You don’t see as many playmaking chaos, mess-the-play-up type of plays from the people in the front seven.”
One of the most noticeable absences is that of cornerback L’Jarius Sneed, who played a crucial role in last year’s success. Sneed’s stats from last season speak volumes: 60 solo tackles, two interceptions, and 14 passes defended. His pivotal play in the AFC Championship game against the Ravens, where he forced a fumble, was instrumental in the Chiefs’ journey to the Super Bowl. Simms highlighted his importance, saying, “The biggest thing, Dan, is there’s no L’Jarius Sneed, right? Last year, they had maybe two of the top three corners in football on the same team.” Unfortunately, Sneed has been sidelined with a quad injury and has missed the last five games.
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The Panthers game further exposed defensive weaknesses. Carolina’s quarterback threw for 263 yards and a touchdown, while David Moore recorded 81 receiving yards and a score. Even more concerning was Chris Jones’ complete lack of impact-no tackles, no sacks, no stats at all.
On average this season, the Chiefs have allowed 215.5 passing yards per game and rank 18th in pass defense. However, their run defense remains strong, ranking third in the league.
Offensively, while Mahomes put up impressive numbers, the O-line struggled to protect him, allowing three sacks. This highlights concerns beyond just Travis Kelce’s declining form. The Chiefs may still have time to address these issues, but their current state leaves fans and analysts alike wondering if a third consecutive Super Bowl is within reach.
