KC Chiefs: Five keys to victory vs Texans in Divisional Round

Number 3 – Big names need to keep making big plays on defense

Possibly the biggest difference between this upcoming game and the week six match-up is the way the Chiefs defense looks.

The “Honey Badger” has thrown his name into the Defensive Player of the Year discussion and Frank Clark has finally flashed why Brett Veach gave him Khalil Mack money. In fact, Tyrann Mathieu had an interception in three of the final six games of the year, compared to just 1 pick in the first 10 weeks. After the Tennessee loss in week ten, the defense has only given up 20 points once and they have been noticeably more confident.

Steve Spagnuolo’s time as defensive coordinator this year has really exploited just how awful Bob Sutton’s scheme was. That being said, the playmakers Kansas City has this year have made that transition much easier.

Chris Jones, Derrick Nnadi, and previously injured Xavier Williams will need to keep the pressure on and force Watson to make ill-advised throws. They’ll also need to limit Carlos Hyde in the run game, who went for 116 yards and a rushing touchdown in week six.

Overall, if the defensive unit continues the path they’ve been on, they will be much better equipped to make a run for the AFC Championship. Mathieu should be thrust into an even bigger role with Thornhill out and he will be tasked to run all over the field, which is when he’s at his best.

If Frank Clark and defensive line don’t get pressure, the Chiefs will be in trouble, but that has not been a problem in recent weeks. It comes down to big players stepping up their game in the playoffs, something we should see from the offseason acquisitions.