The Kansas City Chiefs continue to dominate the AFC West. On Sunday, the Chiefs won their twelfth straight division game. Kansas City defeated the Chargers in Los Angeles, 24-10.
Offensively, the Chiefs scored twice in the first quarter. Alex Smith found Tyreek Hill in the opening minutes for a 30-yard touchdown reception. A few minutes later, the Chiefs scored on a 6-yard shovel pass to Albert Wilson. Before the quarter was over, the Chargers made their mark. In the closing seconds, Melvin Gordon scored from 11 yards out. Kansas City led after one, 14-7.
In the second quarter, both teams struggled offensively. Nothing significant happened for most of the quarter. Late in the half, Cairo Santos connected on a 34-yard field goal, and shortly after, Younghoe Koo made a 29-yarder of his own. The Chiefs went into halftime up 17-10.
The second half also showed few signs of scoring opportunities. Both teams fought for field position through their punters. Late in the fourth quarter, the Chargers were stopped again on a crucial third down and were forced to punt. After a Los Angeles touchback, the Chiefs had a little over three minutes remaining to improve to 3-0.
Kansas City’s main goal was to keep possession and end the game. Kareem Hunt made sure to put a nail in the coffin, when he rushed up the middle and to the outside for a 69-yard touchdown. The drive covered 80 yards in 4 plays. The Chargers made it deep into Kansas City territory in the final seconds. Luckily for the Chiefs, Los Angeles ran out of time and Kansas City won, 24-10.
The Kansas City defense thrived on pass attempts by Philip Rivers. Chiefs defensive backs intercepted Rivers three times in the first half. Terrance Mitchell had two interceptions, after having two in his career entering Sunday. All-Pro Marcus Peters also obtained his first interception of the season. Peters had a total of 14 interceptions in his first two seasons with Kansas City.
Los Angeles had more total yards on the afternoon (330-311), and more first downs (24-16), but three crucial turnovers proved to be a major factor. Time of possession was nearly even.
Kareem Hunt continues to shine for Kansas City. Through three weeks, Hunt has 47 carries for 401 rushing yards, and 6 total touchdowns. Hunt continues to lead the NFL in rushing after his 172-yard performance on Sunday. He also has three rushes of over 50 yards this season.
The Chiefs look to build off their early season success next week. Kansas City will host the Washington Redskins on Monday Night Football.