Chiefs Preseason: 5 things to watch vs. Lions

The training camp for the Kansas City Chiefs came to a close this week. The final practice on Thursday sets the stage for preseason Week 2, where the Chiefs will face the Detroit Lions at Arrowhead Stadium on Saturday at 3:00 PM.

This week serves as the team’s dress rehearsal for the regular season. Head coach Andy Reid mentioned that starters will play for about half the game on Thursday. Quarterback Patrick Mahomes may exit before the rest of the first team, but he will still have sufficient time to get into a rhythm.

Since the preseason was shortened to three weeks, Mahomes has averaged over 18 dropbacks per game in Week 2. Despite a decrease in numbers each year, he will have new players in key positions to build chemistry within live action.

Here are five things to keep an eye on in the final preview of the 2024 Chiefs before the season opener on September 5:

1. The receiving corps without Hollywood Brown

The injury to wide receiver Hollywood Brown will keep him out at the beginning of the regular season, affecting the passing game built around his experience and varied route tree.

Rookie receiver Xavier Worthy may now become the primary deep threat, drawing more coverage attention without Brown. Despite this, Justin Watson has shown efficiency on deep routes, making him a viable target for Mahomes down the field.

While Watson excels in long passes, third-year wideout Skyy Moore has a chance to showcase his talent in shorter, breaking throws. Moore needs to prove himself within the offensive scheme and show consistency in executing routes.

Saturday’s game will be crucial for Moore and wide receiver Justyn Ross, as the team may rely more on playmaking abilities on the outside with Brown sidelined.

2. Third-down defense

The Chiefs’ starting defense had limited opportunities on third downs in the preseason opener. There is still much to learn about defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo’s approach to these critical situations this season.

With the absence of cornerback L’Jarius Sneed, who was effective in neutralizing top receivers, the defense may rely less on man coverage and aggressive blitzes. The front four must generate pressure, while safeties and linebackers need to anticipate plays to cover for a less experienced cornerback group.

The success of the defense on third downs will hinge on the effectiveness of the four-man rush and the communication in the secondary to overcome the challenges posed by a thinner cornerback rotation.

3. The reliability of the run game

While reps for Mahomes in the passing game are important, the Chiefs must be cautious due to injuries. Right tackle Jawaan Taylor will be sidelined on Saturday, giving Lucas Niang the opportunity to step in.

Niang’s performance will be crucial, as he will need to prove himself at the right tackle position. The Chiefs may need to focus more on the ground game to protect their offensive line.

The emphasis on the run game will give rookie left tackle Kingsley Suamataia a chance to showcase his strengths and contribute to the team’s success.

4. The rotation in the secondary