Kansas City Chiefs: Predicting results of every game in 2019
Week 11 – Kansas City Chiefs at LA Chargers (MNF – Mexico City) (Cullen)
This game will be played in LA, right?
Joking aside, this is an intriguing match-up. Of all of the AFC West teams, the Chargers are the biggest threat to dethrone the Chiefs atop the division. Last year, Los Angeles went 12-4, but lost the division to Kansas City on a tiebreaker. Both teams were ultimately eliminated from the playoffs by New England.
This season, at least right now, is already looking quite different than 2018 for the Chargers.
For one thing, running back Melvin Gordon is holding out for a new contract, a standstill between team and player that doesn’t look to have an end in sight until one side blinks. Additionally, second-year safety Derwin James is out for most of the season due to injury. Wide receiver Keenan Allen, who has battled injuries his entire career, missed all of the preseason due to injury.
On top of that, Philip Rivers is 37 going on 38.
Expect a drop-off for the Chargers in 2019, but this Mexico City game is key. If the Chargers win it, not only would they have the head-to-head against the Chiefs, but it very well could put them in the thick of the playoff hunt.
Regardless the outcome of the contest, the Chargers won’t win the AFC West. It could determine how desperate Los Angeles’ second son plays down the stretch.
PREDICTION: Things unravel quickly for the Chargers south of the border with Rivers throwing multiple interceptions as his receivers fail to get open and his line has a tough time against the revamped Chiefs pass rush. Mahomes shines, spreading the wealth, and the Chiefs win more easily than the final score indicates.
Chiefs with the W, 38-28.
STANDOUT PLAYER: Besides #15, this is the game where rookie receiver Mecole Hardman starts to shine. He’ll set a career-high in receptions and yards while scoring a touchdown. He’ll also break off a long run or two, finding the end zone once more. The Legion of Zoom continues its dominance.