Chris Jones Shines in the Chiefs 19-9 Victory over the Cowboys

The Kansas City Chiefs squared off against the Dallas Cowboys in a marquee matchup inside Arrowhead Stadium Sunday afternoon. Both of these football teams have taken the lead in their divisions. Heading into the game, the Cowboys had a record of 7-2, and the Chiefs 6-4. A battle would unfold for four quarters as Kansas City would walk away victorious 19-9.

Dak Prescott Struggled against the Chiefs Defense?

The Cowboys came into Arrowhead sporting the top-ranked offense in the NFL, led by quarterback Dak Prescott. They would be missing a significant part of that offense, wide receiver Amari Cooper. The Chiefs’ defense was well prepared and was downright stifling. Prescott completed 28-43 for 216 yards. He was sacked an impressive five times for 22 yards. He would also throw two interceptions. KC also managed to hold the Cowboys to only 16 carries for 82 yards rushing.  According to StatMuse, in the first seven games, the Chiefs forced seven turnovers, only forcing eight sacks, while in the last four games, they have sacked the quarterback eleven times. This defense has improved dramatically, who was once the worst in the NFL.

The Chiefs Defense Was Highlighted by Chris Jones

Chris Jones was electric, providing a spark on the defensive line. Jones would finish the night with 3.5 sacks, five total tackles, three QB hits, and a fumble recovery. For Chiefs fans, this is the Chris Jones we witnessed sack the quarterback 15.5 times in 2018. He was back at wreaking havoc from the defensive tackle position. His first step is incredible, and his ability to use force on the opposing interior offensive line is mind-blowing and a sight to see.

The defense would also receive a sack from Frank Clark, who continues to play more like himself. His first step off the snap is aggressive, which allows his bull rush to be more effective. Jarran Reed would be the co-owner of half a sack. Since the signing of Melvin Ingram and the defensive line getting healthy, this team is finding the quarterback.

The secondary continues to improve on not only coverage of the wide receivers but also tackling. The two leading tacklers in the game were Charvarius Ward and L’Jarius Sneed. The secondary was able to get eight of the nine pass deflections, and both Charvarius Ward and L’Jarius Sneed would come away with an interception.

The Chiefs Offense Struggled to Get Going

Kansas City’s offense seemed off yet again for another week. After demolishing the Las Vegas Raiders 41-14, this team would only manage 19 points in the win over the Cowboys. Patrick Mahomes was 23-37 for 260 yards averaging seven yards per attempt. He would throw another interception that resulted in a bobbled ball from Travis Kelce. He would not throw for a touchdown after throwing five against the Raiders. So far in 2021, Patrick Mahomes has thrown 25 touchdowns and 11 interceptions. Tyreek Hill was targeted the most, with eleven. He would catch nine for 77 yards averaging 8.6 yards per catch.

Chiefs Head into a Bye Week

In the end, the defense shined for the Kansas City Chiefs. A much-improved unit has helped this team climb back from the depths of the AFC. If the playoffs started today, the Chiefs would have the No. 4 seed. Kansas City is heading into its bye week after sustaining a few injuries against the Cowboys, hoping to get healthy and recharge the batteries.