The Kansas City Chiefs' Week 3 felt like a tone shift after a frustrating start to the season. Kansas City's defense was stifling, and Patrick Mahomes and the offense began to show life late in the second half. It appeared to be last year's team that simply found ways to win no matter the circumstance. Leading to interesting fallout for the New York Giants, who didn't manage to score double-digit points in an ugly offensive showing. One that ESPN's Adam Schefter reports has resulted in veteran quarterback Russell Wilson being benched.
A week after passing for well over 400 yards and putting on a resurgent performance, the quarterback will be riding the bench thanks to the Chiefs. It is fair to wonder if this is not only the end of Wilson's time in New York but his last ride as a starter in this league. Things have now gone awry with the Broncos, Steelers, Seahawks, and Giants over the last five years. It would suggest that if Wilson continues his career, it will be as a backup option.
Chiefs' Defense Appears to End the Career of Former Seahawks Star Russell Wilson
Rookie Jaxson Dart will be taking over, giving Giants fans hope that an exciting season is ahead despite the 0-3 start to the year. One that likely spells the end for the current coaching staff. Regardless, KC fans can't help but take a little pride in a defense that can end a starter's career. Wilson was riding high only a week ago. Things appeared to have stabilized in New York, only for the Chiefs to walk in and terrorize Wilson throughout four quarters.
The veteran quarterback turned the ball over consistently and looked shaken by the Kansas City pass rush. Not only this, but the secondary shut down Malik Nabers, forcing the Giants to look to their second and third options. When this happened, there was a level of panic from Wilson, and he would often miss throws or put the ball in harm's way.
All adding up to a predictable move that has Chiefs fans feeling great and gives Dart a chance to claim the long-term job in New York. For the Chiefs, this level of defensive intensity must continue heading into Week 4 when the franchise has an incredibly tough matchup against the Baltimore Ravens. Lamar Jackson will be a far tougher matchup and certainly won't have the anxiety of Wilson in facing a superior team.
Still, it is a confidence boost both for the Kansas City roster and its fans, reminding the league what the franchise is capable of down the stretch of the season. Leaving Wilson as the backup option and likely ending his career as a starter sends a clear message of the turnaround that lies ahead.