The Kansas City Chiefs are set to face off against the Cleveland Browns on Sunday in a crucial matchup for their postseason aspirations. With the AFC West title clinched, the Chiefs still need to secure home-field advantage by winning out their final three games.
In preparation for this game, here are five key factors to watch:
Protecting Patrick Mahomes from Myles Garrett
The Chiefs’ pass protection has been shaky of late, and the Browns lead the NFL in quarterback pressure rate. To counter this, the Chiefs will need a pointed game plan that includes true double-team blocks on pass downs with tight ends staying in. They should also use more rolling pockets and screens to limit hits on Mahomes.
Big test for Chiefs’ pass coverage
The Browns have been passing heavily this season, dropping back 65.4% of plays, and quarterback Jameis Winston will look to make his seventh consecutive start. This will provide a litmus test for the cornerbacks behind Trent McDuffie, who must be able to handle vertical routes on the outside.
Forcing more turnovers
Winston has thrown nine interceptions since becoming the starter, and his high pass rate makes him prone to turning over the ball. The Chiefs’ defense has forced just three turnovers in that time, making this a crucial game for creating momentum-shifting plays.
Playing through the running backs more
With Myles Garrett breathing down the neck of the Chiefs’ offense, they need to establish a reliable rushing attack. The unit has a talented backfield with Isiah Pacheco, Kareem Hunt, and Samaje Perine, who can help limit exposure opportunities for dropbacks.
Evolving roles for DeAndre Hopkins and Xavier Worthy
Rookie wide receiver Xavier Worthy’s progression as a route runner has led to veteran wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins running more routes outside the numbers. Mahomes is trusting him in close coverage more, which will be crucial in this game.
Source: https://www.arrowheadpride.com/2024/12/14/24320665/5-things-to-watch-as-the-chiefs-play-the-browns-in-week-15