5 things to watch as the Chiefs take on the Giants for ‘Sunday Night Football’

In a Week 3 matchup between two winless teams, the Kansas City Chiefs are taking on the New York Giants for “Sunday Night Football” at MetLife Stadium.

Kansas City is trying to rebound after back-to-back one-possession losses to the Los Angeles Chargers and the Philadelphia Eagles. While a phrase like “must win” seems like hyperbole in September, starting a season 0-3 digs a hole from which very few teams can escape.

Fortunately for the Chiefs, they are among the league’s most experienced teams. They should be able to handle the challenge.

As they try, here are some things to watch.

1. The Chiefs’ running game

So far, Kansas City’s running game has been ineffective. A combination of blocking miscues, poor reads from the backs and a bland running scheme has held the offense back. In fact, most of the production on the ground has come from quarterback Patrick Mahomes’ legs.

Against Philadelphia, we saw poor reads by running back Isiah Pacheco — and at the point of attack, ineffective blocking by tight end Noah Gray. The inexperience on the left side of the Chiefs’ offensive line — paired with conservative play-calling from head coach Andy Reid — has also contributed. It may be only a matter of time before Reid opens up the playbook. Just the same, when the opportunities are there, Pacheco and colleagues need to hit the holes decisively.

So far, most snaps have gone to Pacheco and Kareem Hunt, but Kansas City could also use Brashard Smith and Elijah Mitchell this week.

If there were ever a week to turn the ground game around, this is it. Through two games, New York has surrendered a league-high 355 rushing yards and allowed a staggering 5.9 yards per carry. If the Chiefs cannot run effectively against the Giants’ defense, that should be a red flag.

2. Stopping Malik Nabers

Second-year wide receiver Malik Nabers has emerged as a budding star. He currently leads the league in receiving yards. His performance in Week 2 against the Dallas Cowboys — nine receptions for 167 yards and two touchdowns — highlighted both his explosive playmaking and contested-catch ability. During his Thursday press conference, defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo referred to Nabers as a “game-wrecker.”

The Chiefs must find a way to contain him.

The obvious choice to cover Nabers will be All-Pro cornerback Trent McDuffie — especially on snaps when Nabers lines up inside. Given his size and contested-catch skills, Kansas City may also mix coverages and use longer corners such as Jaylen Watson when he aligns outside.

So far this season, Nabers has been the focal point of New York’s offense. If the Chiefs can limit his production, they should be able to control the game.

3. The Chiefs’ offensive line against the Giants’ defensive line

Don’t let their 0-2 record fool you. The Giants have built a formidable defensive front.

Led by All-Pro nose tackle Dexter Lawrence, edge rushers Kayvon Thibodeaux, Brian Burns and rookie Abdul Carter headline the pass rush. New York has consistently generated pressure — and so far, the team has collected six sacks.

On the inside, Lawrence’s power will be a major challenge — particularly if he lines up against second-year guard Kingsley Suamataia in passing situations. Kansas City must be ready to provide the second-year lineman with the help he will need against Lawrence’s elite strength.

This matchup will also test rookie left tackle Josh Simmons, who has yet to allow a sack through two games. Facing Burns, Thibodeaux and Carter will present a stiff challenge. On the opposite side, Jawaan Taylor — who played well in Week 2 but continues to face heavy scrutiny — will also be tested by New York’s edge rotation.

If the Chiefs’ offensive line can hold its own and keep Mahomes upright, this could be a breakout game for the offense. But the Giants’ pass rush is the toughest challenge they have faced so far.

4. Creating pressure with four rushers

I know it. You know it. Everybody knows it. Kansas City’s defensive line has been struggling to generate pressure. They’ve only rarely gotten home without a blitz.

For the Chiefs to succeed against quarterback Russell Wilson — or even rookie signal-caller Jaxon Dart — they must create pressure with four rushers, collapse the pocket and prevent him from escaping.

Chris Jones will once again be the centerpiece. He has a favorable matchup against the Giants’ shaky interior line. On the edge, the Chiefs need George Karlaftis and Charles Omenihu to step up. After missing time since Week 6 of last season, left tackle Andrew Thomas could return — but if he remains sidelined, rookie Marus M’Bow may be thrust into his first career start.

This game also provides an opportunity for rookies Ashton Gillotte and Omarr Norman-Lott to continue their development. Norman-Lott recorded his first career sack last Sunday — and with Mike Danna sidelined, Gillotte could see an increased role.

5. A comeback game for Travis Kelce

Not much needs to be said.

All-time greats usually find a way to bounce back after a rough performance.

Shake it off, Travis. Please.

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