Kansas City Chiefs: Four things to watch vs Falcons in Week 16

Kansas City Chiefs vs Atlanta Falcons – What to Watch: Shootout

The ball will be spending most of its time in the air at Arrowhead Stadium, as both teams are top three when it comes to passing on offense. Falcons’ quarterback Matt Ryan and receiver Calvin Ridley have found their rhythm. Last week alone Ryan threw for over 350 yards and 163 yards of it was thanks to Ridley.

The good news is the Chiefs have a top 10 pass defense. This is the same defense that kept Drew Brees under 250 yards and capitalized on a misplaced ball by the Saints’ quarterback. Ryan will have to earn his way to the end zone.

Speaking of great passing games, the Chiefs have one as well. Being the No. 1 passing offense is going to come in handy against the second-worst passing defense. This is why we won’t see as much Le’Veon Bell rushes as you might think, as the Falcons have a top 10 rushing defense to add to Andy Reid’s reasons to pass more.

These are perfect conditions for Patrick Mahomes to go off. If you have any Chiefs receivers on your fantasy team for what’s likely the championship round in your leagues, I suggest you start them.

Kansas City Chiefs vs Atlanta Falcons – What to Watch: Snap Counts for Starters

Could we see less of the Chiefs’ superstars this weekend? The Chiefs don’t have to win this game to seal the No. 1 seed in the AFC. They could still guarantee a first-round bye week in a few different ways. Which raises the question of how much will Reid and staff risk their players?

If the game is close or if the Chiefs are behind, we will see more starters on the field, but lookout for more rotations if Kansas City manages to pull far ahead of the Falcons. Normally I wouldn’t expect Reid to pull anyone until Edwards-Helaire’s injury. The Chiefs can’t afford to miss any major stars if they are looking to take home back-to-back Lombardi Trophies.