KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The Kansas City Chiefs have an opportunity on Sunday to win their 10th consecutive game against the Denver Broncos. Here are some of the keys to come out of snowy Denver at 6-1 overall and firmly in command of the AFC West:
1. Build wall, track ball carrier's hip
The Broncos lean on their stretch run game to setup a lot of their play-action and to get them in favorable down-and-distances.
Running backs Phillip Lindsay and Melvin Gordon give them two variances in speed, but are both well equipped for this style.
The Chiefs will need to take away the stretch portion and have the backside keep contain based on the running back's hip.
Denver almost certainly will need to lean on its run game with snow in the afternoon forecast.
2. Isolate Glasgow in pass protection
Right guard Graham Glasgow is the weak link along Denver's offensive line. He struggles in pass protection, especially when isolated.
The Chiefs should be able to run twists and stunts at him relentlessly with delayed blitzes built in as well.
Glasgow looks overwhelmed at times and will routinely turn his shoulder to help a teammate when left uncovered.
Kansas City can create pressure off the edges and against both guards, but Glasgow will give them their quickest path to quarterback Drew Lock, a Lee's Summit native and Mizzou graduate who returned last week from a shoulder injury.
3. Misdirection, space and bunch on offense
The Broncos have a stout defensive front when you run directly at them and will be able to use their strength to slow the Chiefs' rushing attack.
Kansas City will need to use misdirection in the snow to get the edge. The bunch formation can also help the Chiefs effectively seal the edge.
Lastly, the Chiefs should be able to space out the Broncos with their formation and utilize zone runs with double-team blocks to find lanes.
4. Double moves against single, high safety
If there is single high safety, it is double-move time for the Chiefs' pass-catchers.
The Broncos may not be brave enough to isolate their safeties in snowy conditions, but if they do then the double move will give the Chiefs the chance for a home run ball.
Kansas City will need to flood the coverage area with three different levels of routes to get a shot over top.
If Kansas City can execute these things and avoid turnovers, the Chiefs should come away with victory No. 6 in 2020.
