Chiefs show gap between them and other contenders is still quite large

Analytics and Observations from Week 7

Offensive line continues to struggle without Orlando Brown

The Kansas City Chiefs lost their starting left tackle, Orlando Brown Jr., to a calf injury in Week 1. Since then, the offensive line has struggled to protect quarterback Patrick Mahomes. In Week 7, the Chiefs allowed four sacks and nine quarterback hits against the San Francisco 49ers. This is a major concern for the Chiefs, as they need to be able to protect Mahomes in order to be successful.

The Chiefs have tried several different players at left tackle in Brown's absence, but none have been able to fill his shoes. Lucas Niang, who started the first two games of the season at left tackle, has been moved to right tackle. Andrew Wylie, who started the last four games at left tackle, has struggled in pass protection. The Chiefs also tried rookie Darian Kinnard at left tackle, but he was injured in Week 6.

Chiefs defense struggles to stop the run

The Chiefs defense has also struggled to stop the run this season. In Week 7, the 49ers rushed for 158 yards on 30 carries. This is the third time this season that the Chiefs have allowed over 150 rushing yards. The Chiefs have also allowed four rushing touchdowns this season.

The Chiefs' defense has been unable to generate a consistent pass rush this season. They have only sacked the quarterback 10 times in seven games. This has made it difficult for the Chiefs to stop the run, as they have been unable to put pressure on the quarterback and force him to make mistakes.

Chiefs need to make some changes

The Chiefs are now 5-2 on the season, but they have not looked like the same team that won the Super Bowl in 2019. The offensive line is struggling, the defense is not playing well, and Mahomes is not playing up to his usual standards. The Chiefs need to make some changes if they want to be a contender this season.

The Chiefs need to find a way to improve their offensive line. They need to find a player who can fill in for Brown at left tackle and protect Mahomes. The Chiefs also need to find a way to generate a consistent pass rush. They need to put pressure on the quarterback and force him to make mistakes. If the Chiefs can make these changes, they will be a much more difficult team to beat.