Arrowhead Pride
One of Kansas City’s defensive leaders believes that he and his teammates can beat Buffalo by sticking to their plan.
The Kansas City Chiefs’ defense made a statement in last Saturday’s 23-14 Divisional round win over the Houston Texans, racking up an impressive eight sacks.
This was fueled — at least in part — by the attention drawn by All-Pro defensive tackle Chris Jones, whose presence opened opportunities for others along the defensive line. As the team prepares to face the Buffalo Bills in Sunday’s AFC Championship, Jones believes it will be important for the defense to maintain a high standard — particularly against the Bills’ potent rushing attack.
“We’ve definitely got to be able to stop the run if we [are to] have any type of chance of competing [in] this game,” Jones told reporters on Thursday. “I think this number is correct: [in] the last two games, [Buffalo’s] total rushing yards have been 354. So, they’ve been running the ball effectively the past two games.”
Jones was off by three yards — the Bills have gained 357 yards in the playoffs — but his point is no less correct: stopping the run will be one of Kansas City’s priorities in Sunday’s matchup. Known for his ability to make plays with his legs, Buffalo quarterback Josh Allen has long been a thorn in the Chiefs’ side.
“As long as we’re rushing him disciplined,” said Jones, “I think we can affect him. We’ve got to be [under] the umbrella of discipline.”
But Jones and his teammates also understand that Buffalo can also be dangerous through the air.
“We’ve got to challenge ourselves to be effective in the passing game,” he reminded his listeners. “Especially the front four.”
A key factor in that will be the return of defensive end Charles Omenihu, who missed the Week 11 game against the Bills with an injury. Jones has confidence in Omenihu’s ability to impact postseason matchups.
“Charles has been a vital part for us,” declared Jones, “especially in the pass rush. I think that’s what we brought him here for. He’s been able to broadcast it [in] later stages, getting in his groove.”
Omenihu’s return couldn’t come at a better time, since Kansas City must neutralize a Buffalo offense that thrives on balance and explosive plays.
“Being able to have Charles at his peak during this time of the year is vital for us,” added Jones.
But the three-time first-team All-Pro also buys into the team’s continued emphasis on nurturing and developing young players — a principle that has shaped the Chiefs’ defensive identity.
“Being able to be patient with young players [is important],” he observed. “Let them grow. Let them be able to make mistakes. [We’re] getting the best out of each individual in the room.”
Still, Jones knows that in Sunday’s game, his teammates will be relying on his leadership (and their collective effort) to punch their tickets to Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans. Jones, Omenihu and their fellow defenders...
