The Kansas City Chiefs secured a hard-fought 21-14 victory against the Miami Dolphins in Frankfurt, Germany, but the triumph was marred by offensive challenges that prompted Head Coach Andy Reid to issue a postgame apology to the players.
Despite the Chiefs’ defense successfully containing one of the league’s most explosive offenses, the offensive unit, led by quarterback Patrick Mahomes, faced notable struggles.
In a candid postgame speech at Deutsche Bank Park during the locker room celebration on November 5, Reid praised the defense for their outstanding performance, stating, “offense, you did enough,” before extending a formal apology to the offensive line.
“We’ll get better. We’ll get better,” Reid assured, addressing the rare mea culpa.
The apology was prompted by a critical moment in the game, specifically the Chiefs’ final offensive play against the Dolphins.
HOW BOUT THOSE… pic.twitter.com/zkxo5Besu8
— Kansas City Chiefs (@Chiefs) November 5, 2023
The Athletic’s Nate Taylor highlighted the pivotal play, explaining that the Chiefs had a chance to seal the game with a successful four-minute drive late in the fourth quarter but opted to punt after just three plays.
Reid acknowledged his error, admitting, “I probably should have put it in the hands of the big O-line.”
Second 3rd and 10. The Chiefs now go into 12 personnel, put Kelce in a condensed split with Gray next to him to chip for LT, and RT gets a chip from McKinnon. 3-man concept vs. C4 defense. And RDE still gets a decent look at Mahomes! What are we doing! pic.twitter.com/FskAaa4EcN
— Nate Christensen (@natech32) November 6, 2023
The article delves into the recent struggles of the Chiefs’ offensive line, citing their performance over the past two weeks, which included four sacks and 19 pressures.
Despite ranking first in the league for the fewest sacks per game, the Chiefs are positioned poorly in rushing success rate, sitting at 30th.
🏈 Drama unfolds as Patrick Mahomes loses the football! The Dolphins capitalize on the turnover, pushing into the red zone.
— Real Friends & Football (@rff_football) November 5, 2023
Can they turn the tide? Chiefs still ahead 21-7.#NFLSunday
pic.twitter.com/Boo95b9hKW
Questionable coaching decisions by Reid are also scrutinized, particularly the team’s reliance on 12 personnel on third and long situations.
SB Nation’s Nate Christensen pointed out the team’s apparent lack of trust in their tackles, including high-paid player Jawaan Taylor.
The piece emphasizes the impact of the offensive line’s performance on the Chiefs’ overall chances, with concerns raised about their ability to move the ball on third down.
Offensive Coordinator Matt Nagy expressed confidence in addressing these issues, deeming them “very fixable” and emphasizing the need to go back to the drawing board.
Despite the offensive challenges, the Chiefs maintain their position atop the AFC West with a 7-2 record.
The upcoming bye week provides an opportunity for rest and strategic adjustments before facing the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 11 at Arrowhead Stadium.