Chiefs 2022 Preseason: Six Takeaways From Game One
The Chiefs lost the first preseason game of the 2022 season, 14 to 19. Even with the loss, there’s plenty to feel good about moving forward. Here are our takeaways from the offense and defense.
The Kansas City Chiefs traveled to Chicago to take on the Bears in their first preseason game of the season. Kansas City started the game on defense, where they came out and absolutely dominated the first two possessions. The starting defense opened the game with a three and out. Linebacker Willie Gay started the game off with a great fill and tackle against the run. Defensive end Chris Jones ended the first series with a sack by bull rushing the offensive guard. The entire starting defense looks faster and more disciplined than it has been in years past.
Confirmed: @PatrickMahomes is still very good. 📺: #KCvsCHI on @NFLNetwork 📱: Stream on NFL+ https://t.co/3mvoWh7UD3 pic.twitter.com/wtixOnMFAY — NFL (@NFL) August 13, 2022
Quarterback Patrick Mahomes started and played one series with the ones. In the first offensive series, they put together an 11-play, 72-yard drive capped off by a Mahomes touchdown pass to Blake Bell. Mahomes finished 6-7 with 60 passing yards and one score. All six completions were to different receivers. Find a full recap of game one here.
Over/Under: How many games will Chiefs win in ’22-23? – Powered By PickUp
Three Key Takeaways From Chiefs Offense After Saturday’s Loss
Wide Receivers:
Wide receivers Mecole Hardman and Marquez Valdes-Scantling made an impact early in the game, both making a play on the first drive. However, it was newcomer Justin Watson that stole the show. Watson reeled in five catches for 45 yards and a beautiful touchdown. Watson, who is battling for a roster spot, could have locked in his spot with Saturday’s performance. The next best receiver today was Daurice Fountain. Second-year receiver Cornell Powell struggled with a big drop to start the second half. Watson and Fountain have a step on everyone else for the last two receiver spots.
Justin Watson, WR5 🔒 pic.twitter.com/yguEAiu2RW — Arrowhead Pride (@ArrowheadPride) August 13, 2022
Running Backs:
Chiefs running back, Clyde Edwards-Helaire got the start today with the first team. He was followed by rookie running back Isiah Pacheco. Pacheco impressed early with a nice catch out of the backfield in the Redzone. Jerick McKinnon also got reps with the ones today. Newcomer Ronald Jones was the odd man out again with the running backs. As everything progresses, it is starting to trend more towards Jones being a camp cut.
Shane Buechele:
Chiefs’ third-string quarterback Shane Buechele was really impressive today. Buechele led the offensive on a 2-minute drive to end the half, resulting in a touchdown pass to Justin Watson. The Chiefs got a long look at the young QB today. It will certainly be something to monitor for the rest of Training Camp.
Three Key Takeaways From The Chiefs Defense After Saturday
Linebackers:
Chiefs starting linebackers Willie Gay and Nick Bolton led the defense early in the game. Both players were flying around and seeking out contact. The second string saw Jermaine Carter wearing the green dot and calling plays. One underrated camp battle is the backup mike position between Jermaine Carter and Darius Harris. Chiefs rookie Leo Chenal wore the green dot for the third string.
George Karlaftis:
Chiefs rookie defensive end George Karlaftis starts and has a big game. Karlaftis is one of the most fundamentally sound pass rushers coming out of college. Karlaftis was able to get past the Bears’ left tackle for a sack in the second quarter. Look for Karlaftis to continue to find comfort and growth in this defense as well.
A very good start to the career of George Karlaftis. pic.twitter.com/rgc29VE1t9 — Arrowhead Pride (@ArrowheadPride) August 13, 2022
Justin Reid:
Chiefs newcomer Justin Reid started the game off with a great tackle on the game’s first down. One thing the Chiefs knew they were getting out of Reid was great tackling ability all over the field. Reid also kicked the PAT after the touchdown pass in the second quarter. If anything were to happen to Kicker Harrison Butker, the Chiefs now have an emergency backup kicker.
The Chiefs let their safety, Justin Reid, kick an extra point 😎 (via @NFL)pic.twitter.com/sqH4kegWRx — SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) August 13, 2022
The Chiefs will return to camp to prepare for their next preseason game against the Washington Commanders. Look for the starters to get a little more playing time in the team’s next game, taking place Saturday, August 20.
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Over/Under: 6.5 Karlaftis sacks as a rookie? – Powered By PickUp