Chiefs: Andy Reid breaks down the difference between Jacksonville then and now
The Kansas City Chiefs have a tough game ahead of them, even if the media will tell you it's easy. It isn't easy, because this is the playoffs. Actually, this is the second round of the playoffs, where the good teams remain. Jacksonville is a good team and is a better team than the first […]
The Kansas City Chiefs have a tough game ahead of them, even if the media will tell you it's easy. It isn't easy, because this is the playoffs. Actually, this is the second round of the playoffs, where the good teams remain. Jacksonville is a good team and is a better team than the first time they played each other.
When these two teams faced off the first time it wasn't really as close as the score would make you think. The Chiefs won by 10, but they kind of did what they wanted the entire game. Now, the Jaguars are a different team.
They are riding a six-game win streak and have been one of the hottest teams in the league. But, why are they so much better now? What is different with Jacksonville than the last time they played each other?
“Their offense is executing very well," head coach Andy Reid said. "I think they’ve got a pretty good grasp of what (Jaguars Head Coach) Doug’s (Pederson) expecting from them, and I would say the same thing with (Jaguars Defensive Coordinator) Mike Caldwell’s defense that they have a lot of phenomenal players on that defense and they’re playing faster than (when) we saw them the last time. I think they’re just more comfortable overall (and) the speed comes with that.”
The Jaguars will also have some momentum on their side, as they should. If you watched their epic 27-point comeback, then you were probably in awe. That type of win fuels you for the week after. We have seen it plenty of times in the NFL.
Not to mention exactly what Reid said, their offense is clicking and their defense is making plays. They are executing at a much higher level now than they were then.
Against the Chiefs the first time, they had three takeaways but failed to execute and turn those into points. On the first fumble, the Jaguars ended up having to punt directly after. Then on the next fumble, the Jaguars make it within field goal range but missed the kick.
Finally, after getting an interception, they scored a touchdown, but it was far too late. They have cleaned things like that up since then.
This game will be difficult for the Chiefs, more than people think. Mainly because this is an entirely new Jaguars team they are playing on Saturday.
Featured Image Via Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports
