Kansas City Chiefs vs. Denver Broncos: Getting To Know The Enemy

Kansas City Chiefs outside linebacker Justin Houston (50)  Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

Match-ups To Watch

The biggest match-up of the day with be Eric Fisher vs. which ever pass rusher the Broncos throw at him. Fisher dealt with DeMarcus Ware last season when Dallas came to Arrowhead in week two. I wouldn’t say he was impressive, but Fisher did an alright job in that game.

This year (preseason included) however, Fisher has not looked impressive at all. Blame it on his off season surgery if you want to but from what I’ve seen it’s more of a technique and mental issue. He consistently drops his head, stops moving his feet, and gives up all his leverage. You don’t even need a pass rush move to beat that as a simple bull rush can get through Fisher most of the time.

If Kansas City falls behind in this game and they’re forced to throw the ball to get back into this game, Denver will pin their ears back and send the hounds. I’ll be keeping a big eye on that area and I just don’t know if the Chiefs can handle it without Donald Stephenson or Jeff Allen on the field (Note: Jeff Allen missed practice again on Friday).

Another big match-up is Eric Berry on Julius Thomas.

Thomas had a huge game last week, catching three touchdown passes in the first half. Berry has struggled in the past with covering tight ends one-on-one and with limited help from corners and no DJ, he could be in for a long day.

Manning loves to target Thomas up the seam and across the middle, especially in the redzone and on third down. It will be imperative for the Chiefs to take Thomas away and force Manning to drive the ball down the field.

Berry is certainly capable but, will he make it happen?

Lastly is the Chiefs pass rush vs. this Broncos revamped offensive line. The Chiefs have already said they plan on playing first round pick, Dee Ford on more snaps this week and with Justin Houston having two sacks last week, followed by Tamba Hali‘s one, this might be an area that could keep the Chiefs in the game.

Peyton is smart, and will look to get the ball out of his hands quick and eliminate the pass rush as much as possible but he won’t be able to do it the whole game. The Chiefs defense has to take advantage of those moments when Manning needs time to make reads.

And one last thing, don’t let Monte Ball beat you either.