3. Philadelphia’s front will harass Patrick Mahomes
Mahomes made some borderline heroic plays to get past Cincinnati in the AFC title game despite not being 100% physically. His lack of full mobility is really going to cost him against Philadelphia’s ferocious defensive line.
Blocking Haason Reddick is going to be a challenge the Chiefs’ front line simply can’t stand up to. Even if they double-team him on a regular basis it’s going to free up Brandon Graham, Javon Hargrave, and Josh Sweat to terrorize Mahomes whenever he drops back to pass.
Andy Reid is going to use everything in his extensive playbook to try to slow the Philadelphia pass rush down but there’s only so much he can do schematically to disrupt what might be the biggest mismatch of the game. Simply put, the Chiefs’ offensive line just doesn’t have the talent and athleticism required to keep the Eagles’ front seven at bay for four quarters.
Mahomes is savvy enough to get the ball out of his hands quickly so don’t be surprised if Philadelphia’s final sack total doesn’t jump off the stats sheet. The key for the Eagles is to generate consistent pressure to make Mahomes put pressure on his injury. Every time he has to think twice about his injury it’s going to be a big win for Philadelphia’s defense.