In a game of inches the Denver Broncos versus the Kansas City Chiefs was decided by Melvin Gordon’s fumble and the Broncos inability to stop the Chiefs near the end of the game. As this AFC West matchup was closer than expected.

Beginning with the Broncos, although mistakes were the factor to why they lost. The Denver Broncos led by Drew Lock had a great game. Due to the Broncos making the game competitive, established run game, and defense making key stops.

Statistics that stood out from Denver include Drew Locks passing 12/24 for 162 and rushing for 35 yards and two touch downs. Melvin Gordon rushing for 110 yards and a touchdown. Tim Patrick'‘s six receptions for 95 yards and lastly 2nd year corner back Michael Ojemudia’s eight solo tackles and two pass deflections.

However with good comes bad. Most notable negatives were of course Melvin Gordon’s game changing fumble as well as the defenses lack of sacks. On offense the ground game exposed the Chiefs defense but when discussing the passing attack of Drew Lock and the Broncos. The team didn’t convert several plays because of Drew Locks placement of the ball or the impactful passes being unsuccessful.

Going into the offseason it will be interesting to see what changes the Broncos will make but to focus on the 2021 season although the team didn’t end on a high note. The Broncos have the potential and are a good enough team to contend in the future.

For the Kansas City Chiefs, offensively the team has problem finding their identity even though they the quarterback and weapons to contend. However when reflecting on tonight’s game the Chiefs game plan looked simple rather than explosive and dynamic as Mahomes was forced to move outside of the pocket and create plays himself. Another situation to note will be the health of Tyreek Hill going into the playoffs. As he very much looked limited and hobbled throughout the first half.

Luckily the Chiefs and the players they have, Mecole Hardman, Byron Pringle, and Travis Kelce had a good night against the Broncos secondary thanks to Patrick Mahomes throwing quick passes and finding them for the first down. The rush game was not excellent today but considering their main running back CEH was out the Kansas City does not have to worry about aspects of their offense missing a step.

Speaking of rushing, the Chiefs defense once again had significant trouble slowing down Melvin Gordon. Officially giving up 100+ rushing yard games to both Melvin and Javonte. As well as two rushing touchdowns to a non-mobile quarterback in Drew Lock.

Something the team will have to improve come playoff time as they may go up against elite running backs such as Johnathan Taylor, Joe Mixon, and possibly Derrick Henry. Some positives that came from the defense however were teams constant pressure and the Melvin Ingram making the key tackle that led a Gordon fumble and a returned defensive touchdown.

Final Thoughts

Ending the season on a loss especially during the Vic Fangio era can be tough but for a Broncos team that have gone through many highs and lows. Seeing the team fight back and test the reigning AFC champions is a sight to see. As Denver’s future looks to be brighter than ever with gm George Paton leading the way.

For the Kansas City Chiefs, although they may be first seed in AFC. Tonight’s game versus the Broncos was no where near perfect or reminiscent of the Chiefs we seen these past few weeks. As the Broncos exposed the Chiefs defense running ball and showcased what a Chiefs team looks like down a couple of possessions.

Going into the playoffs the Chiefs defense are going to have to improve luckily for them however with Patrick Mahomes and the momentum this team is building. The Chiefs will be a contending team to watch for as the postseason begins.

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