The Chargers currently lead the Chiefs at the halfway mark, 10-7.
Here are a few things that stood out in the first half of play:
Have a game, Mike Williams
After a quiet season opener, Williams is balling out – currently with six catches for 84 yards, including a 39-yard over Chiefs cornerback Rashad Fenton, who was called for defensive pass interference.
Stout against the run
The Chargers were really good against the run in the first half against the Raiders last weekend, and they have carried over that dominance. The Chiefs have gained just 30 yards on 10 carries (3.0 yards per carry).
Chiefs bailed out
On the Chiefs’ touchdown drive, the Chargers were hit with an illegal contact penalty on cornerback Bryce Callahan. In reality, Callahan was pushed to the ground by Chiefs wide receiver Marquez Valdez-Scantling. Had it not been called it would have been an interception by Nasir Adderley. Instead, Patrick Mahomes connected with Jerick McKinnon for a nine-yard touchdown a few plays later.
Defense is still dominant
Despite allowing a touchdown, you can see why the Chargers invested heavily in the defense and made Derwin James the highest-paid safety in the NFL. They are compressing the pocket, keeping contain and getting interior pressure to minimize Mahomes from working his magic – he has 98 passing yards. The coverage is tight down the field. Players are swarming to the football.
