The Chiefs go into their biggest match-up of the young season off of a smooth win over Houston, and a rocky one over LA. If the Chiefs want to continue their reign over the Lamar-led Ravens, the Chiefs have five players they need to step up. Let’s get it.
Mitchell Schwartz
Patrick Mahomes faced pressure early, and often last Sunday, and Schwartz is a big part of that. The usually sharp tackle had a day to forget, allowing seven pressures, the most he’s allowed since 2013. (Via @PFF)
It should go without saying, Patrick Mahomes on his back is not as fun as Patrick Mahomes upright with time in the pocket. I fully expect the all-pro to return to form, he also wasn’t losing to any slouch in the Charger pass rush unit.
Eric Fisher
Schwartz having a bad day kind of took away from the worse game Fisher was having. Probably because it’s not as common with, Schwartz. Fisher allowed 8 pressures, also from good competition, but no excuses in the NFL. (Via @PFF)
While I’m a bit higher on Fisher than the average fan, he has to play better against Baltimore. I’m skeptical it happens on a defensive line that is just as good, if not better than the Chargers.
Clyde Edwards-Helaire
Clyde did not get a real opportunity to give an encore to his week one magic. With a mere 10 carries, Edwards-Helaire ended with 38 rushing yards. Clyde did see an uptick in the receiving game, with six receptions and 32 yards. It was a solid game with minimum touches, but the Chiefs will need that week one magic.
The Chiefs would be wise to attempt to control time of possession, enter Edwards-Helaire. Hopefully the running game, lead by the rookie is able to do so on the tough Ravens d-line.
Mecole Hardman
Mostly a ghost to start the season, it would be nice to see Hardman have a similar performance to last year against, Baltimore. Hardman had a crucial 83 yard TD grab and 104 total yards on the day.
To me, it’s been questionable to see Demarcus Robinson getting snaps over Mecole. I can’t see Andy making a dramatic change, but I do expect Hardman to get more snaps. The Ravens will be a tough fight and Reid will deploy every weapon, I’m sure.
L’Jarius Sneed
Sneed had another exceptional outing on Sunday, only allowing just four catches for 37 yards. According to PFF, he was guarding Keenan Allen, or Mike Williams 50% of the time in press.
It isn’t fair that Sneed needs to keep stepping up, but that’s the game. The Chiefs are in desperate need at the position with Ward hurt, and Breeland will be out on his nearly completed suspension.
Verdict: Chiefs win
I believe that with improved games from Schwartz and Edwards-Helaire, the Chiefs offense will again be too much for the Ravens to overcome.
