Is it already the beginning of the end for Russell Wilson and Sean Payton, stifled by a very good Chiefs defense?
Kansas City Chiefs (5-1) – Denver Broncos (1-5): 19-8
Having struggled since the start of the season, the Broncos travel to their division rival for the start of the 6th week of the season. Far from being favorites, Sean Payton’s men – once again – showed a worrying face, especially offensively. 5 punts, 3 turnovers, and only 14 first attempts for 197 yards. With, as a bonus, 95 passing yards only for Russell Wilson (13/22, 95 yards, TD, 2 INT). The defense limited the damage, but it was still insufficient.
Thanks to a very good defense, with 4 sacks, 7 pressures, 2 interceptions and 1 forced fumble to close the game, the Chiefs won their 5th consecutive victory. Despite a very good game from Travis Kelce (9 REC, 124 yards), the attack was not totally transcendent. But, it remains a victory, with 13 points at the foot of Harrison Butker. The 16th in a row against the Broncos. Alternating between the very good and the less good, Patrick Mahomes (30/40, 306 yards, TD, INT) still remains undefeated against this team.
Sluggish attacks
Defenses take over attacks at the start of the match. Nick Bolton responding to Justin Simmons in the area of interceptions. And sometimes, the defense doesn’t even need to make much effort, because the attacks are so sluggish. Like this completely missed 4th & 2 by the Chiefs at the end of the first half, a few yards from the touchdown.
This first period will not go down in history. Even if it ends well for the locals. With a touchdown from Kadarius Toney, his first receiving this season. Then, a 60-yard field goal from Harrison Butker. (13-0)
The Broncos can’t do it
As Harrison Butker adds 3 more points, Denver will scuttle itself again. Able to score their first points of the match, Russell Wilson saw his pass deflected and intercepted by Justin Reid. But, the Chiefs do not take advantage, with sometimes questionable play calls from Andy Reid close to the end zone.
In this match, Denver’s only bright spot came from a sublime reception from Courtland Sutton (4 REC, 46 yards, TD). But, Kansas City will close the shop thanks to its defense. A fumble from running back Samaje Perine, covered by an excellent Willie Gay, definitively seals the match. As a symbol of Sean Payton’s first matches at the helm of Denver.
Tea @Chiefs defense puts an exclamation point on an incredible effort ‼️#DENvsKC on Prime Video
Also available on #NFLPlus https://t.co/U9rA3YdBnZ pic.twitter.com/K7wVcS2f6y— NFL (@NFL) October 13, 2023
