Defensive Players KEY to a SB LVIII victory (#forDT58)

Image Credit – NFL Trade Rumors (Tershawn Wharton DT #98 jogs off the field against Green Bay at Arrowhead Stadium)

This specific key all revolves around the loss of Charles Omenihu who suffered a torn ACL against the Baltimore Ravens in the AFC Championship game. After that, the Chiefs’ pass rush faltered a bit, as Omenihu had been arguably the Chiefs second best pass rusher as of late finishing with at least a half sack in each of the last 6 games of the regular season, and a clutch strip sack on Lamar Jackson before the injury in the championship game (Reminiscent of Chiefs legend Derrick Thomas).

Now, this is no slight to Herring or Wharton, moreover, a high expectation. Wharton has been one of the bigger undrafted steals in recent history in Kansas City, coming out of Division 2 Missouri Science and Tech in Rolla, MO. 98 has shown ability as an undersized but athletic interior rusher, being one of the quicker interior rushers in the league, and is getting back into form after suffering a torn ACL that ended his 2022 campaign early. Turk had a clutch sack chasing down Lamar Jackson showing that athleticism in the AFCCG. If he can continue that level of play, that will help to replace Omenihu’s usual interior pass-rushing reps on 3rd downs. 

Herring has also been a solid undrafted find and has had a quiet breakout year this year, noticeably outplaying first-round pick Felix Anudike-Uzomah. Herring has shown good ability against the run and has made some great plays against the pass as well (See the week 18 matchup against the Chargers where he was arguably the best defensive player on the field). Herring is set for more reps this week, which could be a blessing in disguise for the Chiefs’ run defense, but hopefully, the pass rush can still be a threat.

Now for the odd man out lately, FAU. Anudike-Uzomah hasn’t been bad this year, but hasn’t had much opportunity to play, and has been a a healthy scratch as of late (Herring passed him up on the depth chart after week 18). Now, with the loss of 90, the Lee’s Summit, MO native will be forced into action in the biggest game of his life. Look for Felix to be mixed in in some dime-rushing situations this week. How cool would it be if he got a sack in the Super Bowl! (Side note for those worried about his progress – Don’t worry yet, keep in mind he was a raw prospect coming out and needed time to develop, and the club still has control over him for the next 4 years even after this year, with the 5th year option. He is learning from some great players and will likely have a larger role next year).

If these players play their best, you can count on a great all-around performance for the Chiefs’ defense once again. Let’s go get this ring for #58 Derrick Thomas. 

 Image Credit – Chiefs.com (Chiefs legend OLB #58 Derrick Thomas)

Go Chiefs!!