Lions vs. Chiefs Week 4 Scouting Report: Is Pat Mahomes unstoppable?
When the Chiefs have the ball
Mahomes, the reigning NFL MVP, continues to set a dizzying pace at the quarterback position, dicing up NFL defenses on a weekly basis. He has a powerful arm, constantly throws his receivers open and can make some of the toughest throws look routine. He’s also accurate, completing over 70% of his passes, without throwing an interception this year.
So how will the Lions go about slowing him down? Pressure always helps, but that’s easier said than done considering Mahomes’ mobility, his knack for making incredible throws on the move and a stout offensive line protecting him. They will be without starting left tackle Eric Fisher (groin), but the Chiefs still boast a cohesive and experienced front, led by All-Pro right tackle Mitchell Schwartz.
Mahomes seems likely to be without his best receiver in the speedy Tyreek Hill (shoulder) for the third week in a row, but he still has an impressive collection of pass-catchers at his disposal. Sammy Watkins currently ranks second in the NFL in receiving yardage, rookie Mecole Hardman has Hill-like speed and Demarcus Robinson is in the throes of a breakout season. Add in All-Pro tight end Travis Kelce, and you have one of the deepest receiving corps in the NFL, even with Hill on the sideline.
The Lions’ secondary has been a major factor in both of their wins this season and seems to be building more chemistry as the season continues. Cornerbacks Justin Coleman and Rashaan Melvin each made critical plays in the fourth quarter against the Eagles, and will need to be on top of their game again on Sunday against the aforementioned pass-catching unit. If Darius Slay isn’t available (hamstring), it will put even more pressure on the rest of the secondary.
The Chiefs don’t have a standout running back, as they lean on a committee approach in the backfield. Darrell Williams and Damien Williams team with veteran LeSean McCoy to split the carries fairly evenly. None of them is a game-breaker, and their rushing output of just over 90 yards per contest pales in comparison to their lethal passing game. The Lions are still finding their footing in terms of defending the run; they are giving up over 125 yards per game on the ground. They simply can’t afford to let the Chiefs become a threat rushing the ball in addition to their typical airborne assault.