Chiefs lead the NFL in one specific key stat that has been critical to their success so far in 2024
Despite their 4-0 start, the Chiefs are battling through many inconsistencies so far in 2024, namely within their offense and passing defense. However, Kansas City has been the best in the NFL in one specific key area – rushing yards allowed to running backs. The Chiefs' defense has been dominant against running backs through four […]
Despite their 4-0 start, the Chiefs are battling through many inconsistencies so far in 2024, namely within their offense and passing defense. However, Kansas City has been the best in the NFL in one specific key area – rushing yards allowed to running backs.
The Chiefs' defense has been dominant against running backs through four games, surrendering the least amount of rushing yards in the league to them with 228 on 73 carries. That's just 3.1 yards per carry and 57 per game.
K.C. eliminating the running back position has given them a huge advantage in every game. It's part of the reason why it ranks 21st in pass defense as teams just can't feel comfortable handing the ball off to their RBs. In total, the Chiefs rank eighth in run defense thanks to rushing yards from quarterbacks and wide receivers.
Defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo is likely fine with giving up some rushing yards to other positions from time-to-time as long as his defense is containing RBs. It should eventually lead to more sacks and turnovers. The Chiefs' defense is coming off its best performance of the season yet, limiting a run-heavy Chargers' offense to just 55 yards rushing and zero touchdowns.
K.C.'s defense will face a big challenge yet again in Week 5 against the seventh ranked rushing offense of the New Orleans Saints, led by explosive RB Alvin Kamara. The Chiefs have had plenty of success in the pass with the formula of taking away the run game from quarterback Derek Carr and making him shoulder the load. With a win over the Saints, K.C. will move to 5-0 heading into its bye week.
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