Is Chiefs’ defensive line ready for best O-line in the NFL?
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. The Chiefs know all about the Eagles vaunted offensive line.
They know there are three Pro Bowlers and two Pro Bowl alternates in that starting five. They know that the Eagles unit, led by Jeff Stoutland, is widely considered to be the best in the NFL. And they dont disagree.
But the Chiefs are also looking forward to that challenge.
Absolutely. Why wouldnt you? defensive lineman Khalen Saunders said. If you go against the best of the best and you win, what does that make you?
Hes not alone.
The star of the Chiefs defensive line is All-Pro Chris Jones, who has been a one-man wrecking crew all season. Hell be the toughest test on that Chiefs defense for the Eagles in Super Bowl LVII.
But Jones know the Eagles will be a test for him too. Like the rest of his teammates, hes looking forward to facing the top offensive line in the NFL.
Always, man, Jones said. When youre going against the best, you always look forward to it. Thats how I think youd rather have it done, beating the best, going against the best. I know its going to be a big challenge. Im excited about it. I cant wait for the opportunity.
Jones is a unique player because hes a disruptive defensive tackle but he does more than play the 3-technique. In fact, the Chiefs early in games try to move Jones up and down the line to figure out how the opponent is playing him and to find his most advantageous matchup.
See how they want to block, see what their plan is for me, Jones said. We gotta attack them.
Of course, the problem with this Eagles offensive line is that there isnt a weak link. From left to right, Jordan Mailata, Landon Dickerson, Jason Kelce, Isaac Seumalo and Lane Johnson are all very good alone. Together, they form one of the best position units not just offensive lines in the entire NFL.
Thats what the Chiefs said stands out most about this Eagles line. They work so incredibly well together and in unison. Those guys up front have played a lot of football together and it shows on tape.
What stands out most about the Eagles O-line?
Their chemistry, Jones said. How they work and mesh so well together, how theyre able to work together. When you play collectively like that, its hard for people to get to your quarterback.
They know how to complement each other, veteran defensive end Frank Clark said.
Thats high praise for Stoutland and assistant offensive line coach Roy Istvan. Because thats the goal. Its one thing to have five talented players but getting those five to play in harmony is like listening to a symphony.
Because once theyre on the same page, the athleticism of that unit really starts to take over.
Then the speed, its unbelievable, Saunders said. Everybody knows what theyre doing before the snap and they go out and execute it at a really high level. Theyre really fast.
Many folks clearly think the Eagles have a big advantage in these trenches and it sounds like the Chiefs are playing that up internally this week. The Chiefs this season ranked 16th in run defense but did finish the year second in sacks with 55 (just 15 off the incredible 70 from the Eagles).
Its not like no one thinks the Chiefs’ D-line can do it but theyre telling themselves that.
Especially the guys who arent All-Pros.
Everybody knows they have a really good O-line and when you think of the Chiefs D-line, youre like Oh they have Chris, Saunders said. I love it though. I love it. Its always fun. Its always a good challenge. It makes it that much better. When you do something, theyre like Who is that? Its all good with me.
But even the All-Pro and Defensive Player of the Year finalist is happy in an underdog role for the Super Bowl.
Two high-powered offenses and one good defense with the Philadelphia Eagles and us, Jones said. So we shall see.
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