KC Chiefs: Five things we learned in week 17 win vs Chargers

The stars have aligned for the KC Chiefs. Not only did the guys in red sweep the division, but thanks to a little Fitzmagic, the Chiefs will have a first-round bye for the second year in a row.

This win wasn’t without its flaws, so that means we learned a few things about the Kansas City Chiefs in their 31-21 victory. Let’s break them down.

The run game finally showed up

While Patrick Mahomes looked good at times, it was the run game that took the game over. Damien Williams broke off a massive 84 yard touchdown run and then had a big touchdown to help close the game out.

The running game has been the weakness of the offense all year and now wasn’t a bad time to show up. Yes, most of the yards came on that touchdown run, but Darwin Thompson also had a couple of decent runs. If the Chiefs can get the running game going in the playoffs, they will be even more dangerous than they already are.

Injury bug strikes again

In what was a normal game, the injury bug strikes again. This time it claimed rookie safety Juan Thornhil, who was having a DROY type year. Losing a player sucks, especially one that had been playing as well as Thornhill had. The Chiefs adapted quite well, but this one hurt. He had become a star for this defense and one hopes that it isn’t something that lingers.

The Chargers aren’t bad

I’m going to go ahead and say it; The LA Chargers are not a bad team.

Do not let the record fool you, the Chargers might be the best team not in the playoffs. They just seem to have gotten bit by a snake at some point and the Chargers have been marred by some untimely Philip Rivers picks and bounces not going their way.

They are also the only divisional opponent to take the Chiefs to the absolute limit this year. They have a solid defense and plenty of pieces on offense to build around. Mark my words, the Chargers are the toughest team in the entire AFC for the Chiefs to beat next season.

Rookie is a star

Rookie wide receiver Mecole Hardman has been great in his limited snaps. Considering that he was likely drafted as an insurance policy in case things went south with Tyreek Hill, he has shown tremendous potential.

Much like every other wide receiver on the roster, he has great speed and has shown an ability to make plays with the ball in his hand. The reason why he hasn’t seen significant snaps is because of a limited route tree and who is in front of him on the depth chart. That being said, there will be a massive jump in year two for the young man out of Georgia.

He showed more of that today with a massive 30-yard catch to help extend a big drive. His biggest contribution was his 104 yard kick off return touchdown that helped put the Chiefs back in front at a crucial time when the Chargers were gaining momentum. Hardman will be a good compliment to Tyreek Hill next year.

https://twitter.com/NFL/status/1211372399125385216