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The Kansas City Chiefs linebackers are having a dominant season. Against the Philadelphia Eagles, the cornerbacks and safeties joined in as well.
The supposedly high-flying Eagles offense was shut down for most of the game. The defense started with an early pick six. After a good tip by Derrick Johnson, Eric Berry grabbed the ball out of the air and returned it for the score. The Chiefs had another interception later on, and they also excelled on third down. The Eagles were just 3-of-10 on third down, consistently having their drives stalled.
The Chiefs’ ability to stop the Eagles in those situations was often because of Justin Houston‘s brilliant play. He had 4.5 sacks and was constantly in the backfield. His partner on the other side, Tamba Hali, was not bad himself. He did not put up the big sack numbers Houston did, but was often causing havoc in the backfield.
The Chiefs were able to sack Michael Vick six times and hit him eight times. Even when the Eagles scored their first touchdown, Vick was on his back.
If you don’t believe the defense won the game, consider this: the defense had as many touchdowns as the offense.
Even though the offense was lethargic at times, they did to some good things. They ran out the clock very efficiently, running an eight-minute drive to get a field goal to make it a two score game with just three minutes to go. The Chiefs also blocked well all game, both for Jamaal Charles and for receivers. Many viewed Donnie Avery as the star of the game, but most of his big plays came as a result of incredible blocking (especially by Dwayne Bowe).
Ironically enough, the great blocking of the Chiefs illustrated how well-coached they are, further showing Eagles fans that Andy Reid was a very competent coach. Another example of his solid coaching was seen in Alex Smith. Smith was never flashy, but made no dangerous throws and played just well enough (which is classic Alex Smith).
The Chiefs are now 3-0, with more wins this year than they had all of last year. It is very surprising to some, but most actually thought the Chiefs would be good. The Chiefs had major improvements at head coach and quarterback, so success was expected. However, the defense has clearly improved as well, and that a surprise.
Many knew the Chiefs could be better, but if the defense keeps playing so well, few will have foreseen how far this team can go.
Jay Cullen is a New York Giants and NFL writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter or add him on Google.
