The Kansas City Chiefs' first preseason game against the Los Angeles Rams was a typical affair, with a mix of promising performances and areas for improvement. While the starters didn't play a significant role, the game still offered valuable insights into the team's potential and the players' prospects. Here's a deep dive into the seven winners and four losers from the game, with a heavy dose of personal commentary and analysis.
Winners
Garrett Nussmeier, Quarterback
Nussmeier's performance was a breath of fresh air for the team. Working under pressure, he looked poised and creative, using his quick release and surprising throw-on-the-run ability to make plays. Personally, I think Nussmeier's performance was a sign that the team might be ratcheting up their expectations for him. What makes this particularly fascinating is the fact that he was drafted late in the seventh round, which means the team wasn't necessarily expecting much from him. However, his performance suggests that he could be a dark horse for the starting quarterback position. In my opinion, Nussmeier's performance was a reminder that sometimes underdogs can surprise us.
Cyrus Allen, Wide Receiver
Allen's debut wasn't the most efficient, with just two catches out of five targets. However, his performance on 3rd and 8, where he climbed the ladder to make the catch, was a significant moment. Allen's aggressive play and strong hands were a welcome sight for Chiefs fans. What many people don't realize is that Allen's performance was a sign that the team is looking for more from their receivers. If he can continue to perform like this, he could be a key player in the team's success.
Emmett Johnson, Running Back
Johnson was arguably the player of the game for the Chiefs. He ran with balance, strength, and vision, leading all rushers with 59 yards on the ground. The new No. 10 also caught all three of his targets, getting involved in the screen game. Johnson's performance was a sign that the team is looking for more from their running backs. If he keeps performing like this, he could force his way onto the field and up the depth chart before the regular season even starts. Personally, I think Johnson's performance was a reminder that the team needs to find a balance between their running and passing game.
Andrew Armstrong, Wide Receiver
Armstrong's blocking stood out most in the game. His big-bodied frame and ability to serve up pancakes in the running game and screen game could be a game-changer for the team. Armstrong might have taken a big step towards winning a job on Saturday. What makes this particularly fascinating is the fact that he is lower on the depth chart, which means he has to make his mark on special teams and as a blocker. If he can continue to perform like this, he could be a key player in the team's success.
Jaden Hicks, Safety
Hicks was a man on a mission against the Rams, with seven tackles, one for a loss, and a pass defended. After a promising rookie season, he didn't seem to earn the trust of his coaches last year. However, in the preseason opener, Hicks was a force to be reckoned with. His performance was a sign that the team is looking for more from their safeties. If he can continue to perform like this, he could be a key player in the team's defense.
Harrison Butker, Kicker
Butker was a perfect 4/4 against the Rams, including a 59-yard line drive that had room to spare. His performance was a sign that the team is looking for more from their kicker. If he can continue to perform like this, he could be a key player in the team's success. Personally, I think Butker's performance was a reminder that the team needs to find a reliable kicker who can consistently make the big kicks.
Mason Thomas, EDGE
Thomas displayed rare quickness in getting to the quarterback and was also active enough against the run to show he belongs. His performance was a sign that the team is looking for more from their edge rushers. If he can continue to perform like this, he could be a key player in the team's defense. What makes this particularly fascinating is the fact that the team has traditionally relied on creative corner blitzes and sturdy defensive ends. Thomas' performance suggests that the team might be breaking the mold.
Losers
Emari Demercado, Running Back
Demercado's performance was a bit of a disappointment. The presumptive No. 2 running back didn't get into the game until late and managed only nine yards on three carries. If the first preseason game is indicative of the running back depth chart, No. 10 might be the new number two. Personally, I think Demercado's performance was a sign that the team needs to find a more reliable running back. If he can't step up, the team might need to look elsewhere for their running back depth.
Peter Woods, Defensive Lineman
Woods didn't have the same flashes as Cyrus Allen in the first preseason game. He had a decent pass-rush snap and a bad run-defense snap. It's not really cause for concern, but it would have been fun to see more from him. Personally, I think Woods' performance was a sign that the team needs to find a more consistent defensive lineman. If he can't step up, the team might need to look elsewhere for their defensive line depth.
Mason Pline, Tight End
Pline didn't get targeted in the passing game, but he did whiff badly in pass protection, leading to a sack deep in Chiefs territory. We'd like to see a guy emerge from this group, even if it's just as a blocker. Based on this limited sample, Pline hasn't yet made his case. Personally, I think Pline's performance was a sign that the team needs to find a more reliable tight end. If he can't step up, the team might need to look elsewhere for their tight end depth.
The Backup Offensive Linemen
The offensive line unit had a rough day, with five false start penalties that derailed multiple drives after the first team exited. Holding penalties cost Emmett Johnson his first taste of the end zone. The depth might still be an issue for this offensive line unit. Personally, I think the backup offensive linemen's performance was a sign that the team needs to find a more reliable offensive line unit. If they can't step up, the team might need to look elsewhere for their offensive line depth.
In conclusion, the Chiefs' first preseason game offered valuable insights into the team's potential and the players' prospects. While there were some winners and losers, the game was a reminder that the team has a long way to go before the regular season starts. Personally, I think the Chiefs have a lot of work to do, but I'm excited to see how they progress over the next few weeks.
