Week 10 Breakdown
The Kansas City Chiefs took on the Jacksonville Jaguars in an entertaining week 10 matchup. Let’s break it down.
By: Justin Miles (@justm1les)
The Kansas City Chiefs defeated the Jacksonville Jaguars 27-17 in an intense week 10 matchup. Kansas City advances to 7-2 and holds sole possession of first place in the AFC. The Jaguars fall to 3-7 and are amidst the worst teams in the conference. Let’s break down today’s performance.
Patrick Mahomes once again dominated in this one. He went 26/35 for 331 yards and 4 touchdowns. Despite an interception, Mahomes still played like the best in the business. He continues to lead the league in both passing yards and touchdowns. He once again was effective on the ground as well. Rushing 7 times for 39 yards. He only continues to lock down the MVP spot as the season progresses.
Even after a fumble on the opening drive, Isiah Pacheco was a workhorse on the ground today. He picked up 82 yards on 16 carries. An average of 5.1 yards per carry is exactly what you want to see from a rookie running back. He played very fast paced and dominant, likely securing his spot as starting back.
Despite not seeing much on the ground, Jerick McKinnon got involved in the passing game. He caught 6 passes for 56 yards. He continues to be very consistent, showing why he is one of the best role players on the Kansas City roster.
Clyde Edwards-Helaire was practically nonexistent. Whether this was just for today’s scheme or for a long term decision will soon be seen. However, Pacheco’s dominant performance may have sat CEH for good.
Newly acquired receiver, Kadarius Toney got some intense action today. He saw 6 total touches for 90 yards and a touchdown. It is obvious Mahomes is going to really enjoy having this new weapon in town. Toney also was the punt returner in this one, replacing rookie Skyy Moore. His role will likely continue to increase as he develops in Kansas City.
Per usual, Travis Kelce was spectacular. He caught 6 catches for 81 yards and a touchdown. This marks Kelce’s first touchdown since his 4 touchdown performance in week 5. Even so, Kelce still currently leads the league in receiving touchdowns. He continues to make his case for G.O.A.T.
Marquez Valdes-Scantling had a good performance for the Chiefs today as well. He caught 3 passes for 60 yards and a touchdown.
Unfortunately, JuJu Smith-Schuster was taken out of the game early on after a cheap hit going down the middle. He has grown to be a great receiver for the Chiefs and hopes are high that he can return quickly. Prayers up for a smooth and safe recovery. He will likely enter the concussion protocol this week. Noah Gray caught the other of Mahomes’ touchdowns.
The offensive line had possibly their best game of the season. Despite Andrew Wylie leaving early with a concussion, the group allowed 0 sacks. After a rough past few weeks, this performance was very relieving to see. They did a great job creating holes for Pacheco as well. Props to them in this one!
The defense played very well. Willie Gay had 8 total tackles and a sack. Nick Bolton also led the team with 8 total tackles. The two continue to lead this defense and arguably are the best linebacker duo in the league. Rookie Trent McDuffie had 7 total tackles and 2 passes deflected. In just a couple of games he is growing into a great player for the Chiefs. Carlos Dunlap got half of a sack today, hitting the milestone of 100 career sacks!
It was a great all around effort by the defense. They held the Jacksonville rush game to just 75 total yards and for the most part, shut down the pass game.
The team overall played a very clean, effective game of football. They are only improving as the season progresses which is exactly what everyone wants to see. They are proving why they are the best in the business and will no doubt make a strong Super Bowl push.
Stats via: ESPN
