Andy Reid and Patrick Mahomes have become formidable foes for many in the NFL, as the Kansas City Chiefs’ record of success edges towards historic greatness. One team feeling the heat? The Los Angeles Chargers, who have struggled in their rivalry of late.
This Sunday, when they clash in Los Angeles, Kansas City (3-0) aims for a sixth consecutive victory over the Chargers (2-1). Now, to further spice things up, we have rookie coach Jim Harbaugh stepping up to the plate in what has lately been a heavy-handed slugfest within the AFC West, managed by the dynamic duo of Reid and Mahomes. Turning the tide won’t be a stroll in the park.
“There are a lot of challenges,” Harbaugh admitted before the Chargers entered their bye week. “They sport an excellent running game, a potent passing attack, and an explosive offense. Everyone knows the task at hand when playing a quarterback like Patrick Mahomes. His ability to move the ball, both through the air and on the ground, is elite.“
Despite their success, some modest statistical figures are raising eyebrows outside the Chiefs’ locker room. Kansas City currently ranks 14th in the NFL in total offense, averaging 328 yards per game, and their typically star-studded receiver, Pro Bowl tight end Travis Kelce, has had a slow start with just eight receptions for 69 yards and no touchdowns in three games.
Sitting on the brink of tying Tony Gonzalez for the franchise record with 916 receptions, Kelce’s next touchdown catch from Mahomes would set a new record, surpassing the legendary duo of Drew Brees and Jimmy Graham. Reid, however, dismissed any notion that Kelce is “old” or “distracted.”
“Defenses certainly don’t think that way,” Reid emphasized. “We’ve got another receiver stepping up and delivering big numbers right now. That’s the nature of the game. Travis is still Travis – he’s giving it his all and hasn’t missed a beat. He’s as focused as ever. Our opponents know they’re up against one of the best.”
Wide receiver Rashee Rice has emerged as Mahomes’ main target in September, despite recovering from an ankle injury. Leading the NFL with 24 receptions for 288 yards and two touchdowns, Rice has become a vital part of Kansas City’s passing attack. Mahomes has been efficient with a 69.6% completion rate, tallying 659 yards, five touchdowns, and four interceptions across three games.
The Chargers bring a robust defense into the mix, ranking in the top 10 in multiple categories: scoring defense (third at 11 points per game), total yards per game (sixth at 267), and both run (91.7 yards per game, sixth) and pass defense (175.3 yards per game, tenth).
However, Mahomes will face a somewhat depleted defense. Pass rusher Joey Bosa (hip) and linebacker Junior Colson (hamstring) missed Wednesday’s practice. Meanwhile, safety Derwin James Jr. will be out due to a suspension from a Week 3 incident in Pittsburgh. Stepping up will likely be Elijah Molden or AJ Finley alongside Alohi Gilman to cover the safety position.
“James really cares about the game and playing fair,” Harbaugh stated regarding James’ suspension. “He’s committed to playing by the league’s rules, but sometimes incidents happen.”
Harbaugh emphasized the “next man up” motto as they prepare to face Kansas City. The Chargers are coming off victories against the Raiders and Panthers (48-13) before dropping their season opener to the Steelers (20-10).
Defensively, Harbaugh has fingers crossed for quarterback Justin Herbert, who has been nursing an ankle injury but still managed to play against the Steelers. Offensive tackles Rashawn Slater (pectoral) and Joe Alt (knee) also missed practice, putting further pressure on the offense.
Herbert assured fans he is improving, saying, “I’m feeling a lot better than I did last week. It was tough during the game with all the hits and wear and tear.” He was limited in practice, and his readiness for Sunday’s battle will be assessed leading up to the game.
Harbaugh acknowledges the Chiefs’ dominance in the series and their eight consecutive AFC West division titles. With the game on their home turf, the Chargers are keenly aware of the significance of this matchup against the reigning Super Bowl champions.
“Often, it’s about grasping the opportunity,” Harbaugh noted. “And that’s exactly how we’re approaching it.”
The Chiefs will head back to Kansas City for their third primetime game of the season, facing the Saints (2-1) on “Monday Night Football” in Week 5, followed by a bye week.
It’s a clash of titans brewing in Los Angeles, and every football fan should be excited for what could be a game for the ages!
