The Chiefs finally found the explosive run game they’ve been missing
During the 2024 NFL season, the Kansas City Chiefs generated seven explosive runs on offense, defined as runs of 20 yards or more. That was near the bottom of the league. A year ago the Chiefs offense managed only three of those such plays — the worst mark in the NFL — with just one […]
In the 2024 NFL season, the Kansas City Chiefs managed only seven explosive runs on offense, a statistic that ranked near the bottom of the league. However, one game against the Denver Broncos proved to be a turning point for the team. Running back Kenneth Walker III delivered two explosive runs of 20 yards or more, more than doubling the number of such plays from the previous season.
This marked a significant improvement in the Chiefs' offense, as Walker rushed for 173 yards on 23 carries, setting a career-high and the fourth-highest total for a player in their first game with a new team in league history.
On the opening drive, Walker showcased his explosiveness with two plays under center, a shift in the Chiefs' offensive strategy. This move proved effective, accounting for 148 of Walker's 173 rushing yards in the game. The Chiefs' running game was bolstered by a strong defensive performance, with Walker generating +101 rushing yards over expectations and forcing 14 missed tackles, the most by any Chiefs player since 2018.
The Chiefs' new running back demonstrated his impact, catching the attention of AFC defensive coordinators despite Mahomes' initial rustiness.
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