Mike Danna’s big performance on Monday night vs. Commanders reaffirmed what we already know about the Chiefs’ defense
You can count on Steve Spagnuolo’s unit every year.
The Kansas City Chiefs’ 28-7 victory over the Washington Commanders on Monday night was a game to remember for defensive end Mike Danna.
He intercepted quarterback Marcus Mariota on the opening drive of the first quarter on a pass that bounced off the hands of wide receiver Deebo Samuel. At the end of the third quarter, Danna sacked Mariota on a crucial third down while Washington was driving to try to get back into the game.
It was by far the best performance of the season from Danna, who has been riddled by injuries dating back to last year. He did finish 2024 strong, however, and perhaps he’ll be more of a force moving forward now that he’s tasted some success in 2025.
Mike Danna and the Chiefs’ defense share trait of getting better as the season unfolds
One of Steve Spagnuolo’s unique traits that has made him and excellent defensive coordinator is his ability to make adjustments. Throughout most of his seven-year tenure in Kansas City, his unit has gotten better as the season progresses. Danna detailed that while speaking to the media on Wednesday.
“It’s not how you start, it’s about how you finish,” Danna said. “Of course you want to throw the first punch, but sometimes a game doesn’t work out like that. Offenses are putting out their best plays, and you just got to weather the storm.
“Everybody’s got to be calm, and understand that there’s going to be ups and downs in the game. That’s just a game of football. Nothing is ever perfect, but as long as you got 11 individuals trying to get that ball and make plays, doing their assignments, that’s all you really can ask for, man.”
The Chiefs’ defense had a rough outing in Week 1 against the Los Angeles Chargers, but bounced back nicely over the next few games. It then had another rough go against the Jacksonville Jaguars in Week 5, but responded by limiting the explosive Detroit Lions to 17 points the next week, followed by a shutout against the Las Vegas Raiders, and allowing only seven points to the Commanders.
History says Kansas City’s defense will be at its best as it closes out the regular season and heads into the playoffs. If Danna can carry his momentum and stay healthy from here on out, that will go a long way for a defensive line that has had its ups and downs. Danna and the Chiefs will face their toughest challenge yet against quarterback Josh Allen and the Buffalo Bills on Sunday.
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