Key Takeaways From Kansas City Chiefs Defense After Week 4 Win

The Kansas City Chiefs extended their unbeaten streak to 4-0 with a victory over the Los Angeles Chargers. Despite a slow start, the Chiefs’ defense clamped down after the first quarter, securing a 17-10 win at SoFi Stadium. With this win, Kansas City’s defense proved once again why they are one of the league’s top units this season.

In a game that saw the Chargers jump to a 10-0 lead, the Chiefs’ defense rallied, shutting out Los Angeles for the remainder of the game. Their dominance in the trenches and airtight secondary were critical in maintaining the team’s undefeated record.

Chris Jones Dominates the Trenches

Sep 29, 2024; Inglewood, California, USA; Kansas City Chiefs cornerback Jaylen Watson (35) celebrates after breaking up a pass for Los AngelPhoto by© Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

Chris Jones was the defensive star in Kansas City’s Week 4 win. After a few quiet games, the five-time All-Pro lineman delivered a standout performance, recording two sacks and four tackles against Justin Herbert and the Chargers. Jones’ ability to collapse the pocket and disrupt Los Angeles’ offense was crucial to the Chiefs’ defensive success.

Jones’ first sack of the day came late in the first half, halting a promising Chargers drive. His second sack occurred in the fourth quarter, all but sealing the game. Beyond those big moments, Jones consistently pressured Herbert, forcing errant throws and preventing the Chargers from finding a rhythm. His contributions earned him an 82.4 grade from Pro Football Focus, the second-highest defensive rating on the team.

Playing alongside Felix Anudike-Uzomah, Jones benefited from the balance along the defensive line. Anudike-Uzomah in his first career start also had a solid game, helping to free up Jones to do what he does best—get after the quarterback. With three sacks on the season, Jones remains the heart of Kansas City’s defensive front and continues to set the tone for the unit.

Run Defense Shuts Down the Chargers

Kansas City’s run defense continued its dominant streak in Week 4. Coming into the game, the Chiefs were already one of the best in the league against the run, and they showed why against the Chargers. Los Angeles managed only 55 rushing yards, well below their season average of 128 yards per game.

Running back J.K. Dobbins, one of the NFL’s leading rushers, was held to just 2.3 yards per carry on 14 attempts. Kansas City’s front seven clogged running lanes all day, forcing the Chargers to abandon the run game early. This forced Los Angeles to become one-dimensional, playing right into the strengths of the Chiefs’ pass rush and secondary.

In total, the Chiefs’ defense forced six punts, a missed field goal, and a turnover on downs in the Chargers’ final eight possessions. They allowed just seven first downs after the first quarter, showing their ability to adapt and lock down opposing offenses.

Secondary and Linebackers Step Up

The Chiefs’ secondary played an outstanding game, led by cornerback Jaylen Watson. Watson was targeted five times and did not allow a single catch. His performance in coverage was essential in keeping the Chargers’ passing game in check, and his two third-down pass breakups helped stall critical drives. Watson earned the highest PFF grade on the defense at 84.6, also having the highest coverage rating for this week at 89.6.

The linebacker corps also played a significant role in the defensive effort, especially Drue Tranquill. Returning to face his former team, Tranquill led the Chiefs with 10 tackles. His ability to read the Chargers’ offense and make key stops added another layer of strength to the Kansas City defense.

Nick Bolton also contributed with timely tackles and a constant presence around the ball. The Chiefs’ linebackers flew around the field, providing excellent support to both the defensive line and the secondary. Together, these units formed a cohesive group that effectively shut down Los Angeles’ attack after the early 10-point deficit.

Final Thoughts

The Kansas City Chiefs’ defense has proven to be the backbone of the team’s 4-0 start. While the offense has had its ups and downs, the defense has consistently delivered when it matters most. Their ability to stop the run, generate pressure, and lock down in coverage makes them one of the best defensive units in the NFL.

Chris Jones continues to anchor the defense while emerging players like Jaylen Watson and Drue Tranquill provide additional playmaking. The defensive depth and versatility across all positions have made it hard for opponents to find any weak spots.

As the season progresses, Kansas City’s defense looks capable of carrying the team through tight games. With elite players at every level of the defense, the Chiefs are building a formula for sustained success on both sides of the ball.

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Article originally written by Jason Dayeemakes