Numbers Never Lie: 3 Chiefs stats and what they mean for this season

Key Points:

• The Kansas City Chiefs generated pressure on 46% of dropbacks in Week 1, ranking fourth highest in the NFL, even managing a 36% pressure rate without blitzing, which is notable against a Broncos team that excelled at limiting pressure last season.
• The Chiefs faced heavy defensive formations with 8 or more men in the box on 14 plays, indicating the Broncos' need to focus on stopping the run, which highlights the effectiveness of running backs Kenneth Walker and Emmett Johnson.
• As defenses adjust to respect the Chiefs' running game, the team is likely to find more opportunities for passing plays behind defenders brought closer to the line of scrimmage.
• Cornerback L’Jarius Sneed led the league with 3 “Hustle Stops” and tied for third in solo tackles, demonstrating his physical play and impact in the slot, while the Chiefs’ outside cornerbacks performed well against a strong receiving group with no penalties and multiple forced incompletions.
• The defensive performance, especially in the secondary, combined with a strong pass rush and effective running game, suggests a promising outlook for the Chiefs’ defense and offense as the season progresses.