How Did the Chiefs Win 11 Straight Games in 2015?

(photo credit: kckingdom.com)

The Kansas City Chiefs started the season 1-5 and things were headed in the wrong direction. Star running back Jamaal Charles was out for the season, leaving the Chiefs in a twist. They ended winning 11 straight games that took them to the second round of the playoffs. So the question is, how did the Chiefs do this?

What helped Kansas City a lot is the emergence of Charcandrick West, who stepped in for the Charles. He was a solid run blocker, and he was rock solid in the passing game. Also, the first few games, quarterback Alex Smith was pressured constantly and he wasn’t able to play his game. Once the Chiefs offensive line settled in, Smith was able to play his role as “game manager”, and he was able to really control games.

The Chiefs schedule was front loaded with heavy competition, but their final 11 games were all against non-playoff teams. That helped a lot, and it allowed for the Chiefs to transition to a new offense. What made the biggest impact in terms of the Chiefs dramatic turnaround was the health of their defense. To start the year, the defense was suffering from a plethora of injuries, and many second and third teamers were forced to play.

Players such as Sean Smith, Eric Berry, and Justin Houston returned fully healthy, and it helped the Chiefs win games even if the offense wasn’t producing too much. Also, having a true wide receiver in Jeremy Maclin helped the Chiefs during their winning streak.

He was also hurt for a good portion of the first half, and once he returned, Kansas City had consistent and balanced production from its pass catchers. Finally, having a veteran coach in Andy Reid made a big difference, as he used his experience to guide the Chiefs through their tough times. While there weren’t many tweaks made during the Chiefs run, returns from injuries made the biggest impact for Kansas City.