This article summarizes the key developments from NFL Sunday and examines what they mean for the future.
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We worried about the Chiefs?
The transfer from Tyreek Hill was one of the biggest stories of the offseason. With the loss of the best big-play player and one of the most explosive players the field has ever seen, it was only natural to think the offense could slack off.
After yesterday’s game we can probably bury that worry. This offense is as good as it has been for the past five years. And when you think about it, there’s really no reason why it shouldn’t be.
Patrick Mahomes — still arguably the best quarterback in the world — dismantled the Cardinals with 360 yards and five touchdowns. Travis Kelce remained his No. 1 and led all passers with eight catches and 121 yards, but it also saw new signings JuJu Smith-Schuster (six catches, 79 yards) and Marquez Valdes-Scantling (four catches, 44 yards) already insert well.
While any offense is better with a player like Hill, it’s no secret that the Chiefs have lacked depth at this position for years. That doesn’t seem to be a problem anymore.
The rushing attack should also not be overlooked. Clyde Edwards-Helaire and Isiah Pacheco were both key contributors to the win.
The Chargers are in top form
After the Chargers so narrowly missed last year’s postseason, they realized that with a quarterback that is among the best in the league, now was the time to invest. And they did, signing two defensive stars in Khalil Mack and JC Jackson.
In Sunday’s opener against the Raiders, LA were by far the better team, despite Jackson being inactive and Keenan Allen missing most of the game with a knee injury. Herbert looked just as good as he did in his stellar 2021 season, Mack shone with three sacks against Joey Bosa, and the newly formed defensive front let the Raiders rush for just 64 yards.
The constant pressure also forced Carr into a series of misjudgments that resulted in three interceptions that day.
Alongside the Chiefs, the Chargers are another frontrunner and real Super Bowl contender in the NFL’s top division. And on Thursday evening they will meet face to face for the first time.
Foto: imago images / ZUMA Wire
Photo: IMAGO / Icon SMI
Photo: IMAGO / Icon SMI
Foto: imago images / Icon SMI
Photo: IMAGO / UPI Photo
Photo: IMAGO / Icon SMI