3 causes for concern for the Chiefs in close win over Broncos

DENVER, COLORADO - DECEMBER 11: Patrick Mahomes #15 of the Kansas City Chiefs celebrates with fans after defeating the Denver Broncos 34-28 at Empower Field At Mile High on December 11, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Justin Edmonds/Getty Images)
DENVER, COLORADO - DECEMBER 11: Patrick Mahomes #15 of the Kansas City Chiefs celebrates with fans after defeating the Denver Broncos 34-28 at Empower Field At Mile High on December 11, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Justin Edmonds/Getty Images) /
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LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – NOVEMBER 14: Defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo of the Kansas City Chiefs looks on during the first half of a game against the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium on November 14, 2021 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Chiefs defeated the Raiders 41-14. (Photo by Chris Unger/Getty Images)
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – NOVEMBER 14: Defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo of the Kansas City Chiefs looks on during the first half of a game against the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium on November 14, 2021 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Chiefs defeated the Raiders 41-14. (Photo by Chris Unger/Getty Images) /

2. Chiefs need more consistency defensively

Kansas City had two interceptions and six sacks of Russell Wilson and Brett Rypien on the day. By no means should they be considered a problem in either department.

Nonetheless, missed tackles have been an overwhelming issue. Look no further than Marlon Mack’s touchdown to start the second half.

https://twitter.com/Broncos/status/1602076235122630658

And this was AFTER Steve Spagnuolo had 20-plus minutes to come up with some adjustments on that side of the ball.

Kansas City’s offense put the defense in tough positions time and time again, and their bend but don’t break scheme doesn’t work on short fields. It’s not a good formula for success.

Heading into Sunday, the Chiefs defensive ranks were troubling. Since their 4-1 start, Kansas City ranks 14th in total points allowed and 24th in net passing yards alone. The secondary wasn’t much better today, giving up four touchdown passes to Wilson and Rypien combined.

It’s important to keep in mind, as well, that the Broncos passing attack was arguably the worst in football prior to Week 14.