Kansas City Chiefs: Ranking the 5 toughest games on the 2021 schedule

No. 1: The Los Angeles Chargers are an interesting foe for the Kansas City Chiefs

Ever since the Los Angeles Chargers drafted Justin Herbert, these games have become very important games.  Justin Herbert will be entering into his second season leading the Chargers.  Herbert who won 2020 NFL AP Offensive Rookie of the Year and was named to 2020 NFL All-Rookie team really impressed his first year in the NFL.

Herbert threw for 4336 yards, completing 31 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions.  He started and played in 15 games for the Chargers.  Going into this season he will have a new coaching regime since Anthony Lynn was relieved of his duties as Head Coach.

The Chargers have a lot returning on the offensive signed of the football. They did add veteran tight end Jared Cook after losing Hunter Henry to the New England Patriots.  Keenan Allen, a four-time Pro Bowler is a very good receiver for the Chargers.

The running backs are led by Austin Ekeler. Ekeler is a good runner and an even better pass catcher.

Switching over to the defensive side of the football.

When healthy this defense can be stifling.  A very good front seven with Jerry Tillery, Linval Joseph, and Justin Jones on the defensive line.  The linebackers can be lethal in the pass rush led by Joey Bosa.  Bosa had 7.5 sacks after only playing in 12 games.

The secondary is what sticks out on paper, and again if healthy can cause issues for opposing quarterbacks.  Chris Harris, and Derwin James being the notable names.  The Chargers did use their 2021 2nd round pick on Asante Samuel Jr. from Florida State.

The AFC West is a good division and this game in Week 15 could create some postseason implications.  Usually around this time teams are locking up playoff spots.  The Chiefs and Chargers will be battling it out for sure and this game is on the road for the Chiefs.

All joking about the Chargers fanbase aside, this game could be roaring in the new stadium.  Sofi Stadium was opened during a pandemic year where fans were not allowed in for the most of the NFL season.

The Chargers played the Chiefs very close in Week 2 coming down to the last seconds in LA on a overtime finish.  The Kansas City Chiefs Kicker Harrison Butker attempted three field goals before the game was deemed final.  In Week 17 the Chargers would return the favor in Kansas City beating the Chiefs 38-21.

This game finds itself #1 on the list because it is a competitive AFC West opponent, on the road, and could have implications going into the playoffs.

These are just five of the games the Chiefs will play in this coming season.  With fans in the stands the atmosphere could have implications on the games, and ultimately the outcome as well.  The Chiefs will have a tough road this year to return to the Super Bowl for the third year in a row.