In an AFC West division rivalry, the Kansas City Chiefs aim to extend their winning streak to six when they face the Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday afternoon.
Kansas City, with a 5-1 record, is coming off a 19-8 home victory over the Denver Broncos in Week 6. Despite their top spot in the division, quarterback Patrick Mahomes isn’t content and is determined to see improvement from himself and his team against the Chargers.
Mahomes stated, “It’s just the little stuff that we’re not executing at a high enough level.
..In this league, in order to have these sustained drives and score touchdowns, get in the red zone and score against good defenses, you have to execute.”
The Chargers, with a 2-3 record, are also focused on self-improvement after a narrow loss to the Dallas Cowboys on Monday night, where quarterback Justin Herbert threw a late interception that sealed the 20-17 outcome.
Chargers linebacker Eric Kendricks emphasized the need to move forward, saying, “We’ve got to roll with it…We’re going to Kansas City. We need this big win. We need to band together (and have) a good week of practice. Let’s (freaking) go. It’s the NFL. It’s fun.”
The game promises to be anything but dull, with numerous playmakers on both sides of the ball. For the Chiefs, tight end Travis Kelce is a top target on offense, while Isiah Pacheco has been a strong contributor on the ground.
On the defensive side, the Chargers boast pass-rushing prowess with Khalil Mack, Morgan Fox, and Joey Bosa. Bosa revealed that he played with a fractured left big toe in Week 3.
Mahomes recognizes the Chargers’ potential, stating, “Their record doesn’t reflect it this year, but we understand how good this football team is.
..You’ve got (Mack on one side) and Joey Bosa on the other side. Those are two of the best pass rushers in the league.”
The Chargers also have the ability to create big plays on offense, with Herbert’s impressive performance and Keenan Allen’s strong receiving numbers.
Kansas City’s defensive tackle Chris Jones will lead the effort to stymie the Chargers’ offense, while they also expect the return of defensive end Charles Omenihu after his six-game suspension.
The Chargers have ruled out safety Alohi Gilman and cornerback Deane Leonard, while safety Derwin James Jr. and linebacker Amen Ogbongbemiga are questionable. Wide receiver Justin Watson will be absent for the Chiefs, and cornerback Jaylen Watson is questionable.
