The Kansas City Chiefs extended their perfect start to the 2024 season with a 28-18 victory over the San Francisco 49ers in Week 7. Although Patrick Mahomes threw two interceptions, it was the Kansas City Chiefs’ defense that made the biggest impact. Their ability to create turnovers and stop the 49ers’ offense was the key reason Kansas City remains undefeated.
Despite missing several key offensive players, the Chiefs leaned on their defense to secure the win. Kansas City’s defense forced multiple takeaways and kept the pressure on San Francisco Quarterback Brock Purdy, who struggled to find a rhythm without his top weapons. The Chiefs’ defensive unit, led by Defensive Coordinator Steve Spagnuolo, continues to show why it’s one of the best in the NFL, with young players stepping up to make critical plays as injuries mount.
Kansas City Chiefs Defense Establishes Early Tone
Kansas City’s defense set the tone early, keeping San Francisco’s offense in check from the start. The 49ers managed just six points in the first half, going 0-for-3 on third downs in the first quarter and gaining only 28 yards on 10 plays. The Chiefs’ defense forced multiple punts and intercepted Purdy, capitalizing on San Francisco’s injury-depleted offense.
The Chiefs’ dominance in the first half limited San Francisco’s offensive flow. Early defensive stops included two punts, a field goal, and an interception, effectively silencing the 49ers’ offense. By the time the 49ers found the end zone in the third quarter, Kansas City had already built a commanding lead, making it tough for San Francisco to mount a comeback.
The Kansas City Chiefs’ defensive game plan was perfectly executed, forcing the 49ers into difficult third-down situations and taking away their ability to control the game. The 49ers’ drives frequently stalled, and their offensive production was minimal, allowing Kansas City to dictate the pace of the game.
Pressuring Brock Purdy and Limiting the Niners Offense
One key factor in the Chiefs’ defensive success was their ability to pressure Purdy. While the Kansas City Chiefs only recorded one sack, they consistently disrupted Purdy’s timing and forced him into uncomfortable situations. Kansas City finished with five tackles for loss, demonstrating their dominance at the line of scrimmage. This pressure, combined with strong downfield coverage, made it difficult for Purdy to establish any offensive consistency.
Purdy’s struggles were compounded by injuries to San Francisco’s top offensive weapons. Without his usual targets, Purdy was forced into tight windows, resulting in three interceptions. The Kansas City Chiefs capitalized on these mistakes, using their defensive prowess to keep the 49ers’ offense off-balance for much of the game.
The Chiefs’ defensive front also did an excellent job limiting the 49ers’ running game. Running Back Jordan Mason, a bright spot in recent weeks, was held to just 58 yards on 14 carries—his worst performance of the season. Kansas City’s linebackers and defensive line swarmed the backfield, forcing San Francisco, a team that relies on its running game to open up the pass, to become pass-heavy. This shift exposed the 49ers’ offense and led to Purdy’s struggles.
Chiefs’ Defensive Playmakers Shine
The Chiefs’ defense continues to show its championship form, with multiple players stepping up for standout performances. Safety Justin Reid led the defense with nine tackles and one of the three interceptions off Purdy. Reid earned the team’s highest run-defense grade (84.9) and led in tackling efficiency with a grade of 85.2, marking his best performance of the season in both categories.
Linebackers Nick Bolton and Leo Chenal were instrumental in shutting down San Francisco’s run game and intermediate passing attack. Bolton, who finished with six tackles and a tackle for loss, now leads the Chiefs with 44 total tackles and seven tackles for loss on the season. Chenal, who earned the team’s highest defensive grade (88.4), also posted the top pass-coverage grade (92.5). He contributed five tackles and a tackle for loss.
As injuries continue to test the Kansas Chiefs’ depth, players like rookie Cornerback Christian Roland-Wallace and Safety Jaden Hicks stepped up. Both players grabbed interceptions, taking advantage of Purdy’s mistakes. Hicks, in particular, earned the team’s second-highest defensive grade (86.4), showing the potential of the Kansas City Chiefs young secondary.
Final Thoughts
The Kansas City Chiefs’ defense has become the foundation of their success in 2024, stepping up when needed to secure key wins. The unit thrives under Spagnuolo’s leadership, showing their ability to adapt and overcome injuries. With players like Justin Reid, Nick Bolton, and Leo Chenal leading the charge, Kansas City’s defense is proving to be one of the most dominant in the league.
As the season progresses, the Kansas City Chiefs will need their defense to maintain this high level of play. The depth and versatility of the unit, particularly with young players stepping up, will be crucial in the long run. If they continue to disrupt opposing offenses as they did against the 49ers, the Kansas City Chiefs will remain tough to beat.
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