3 Keys to Victory: Atlanta Falcons vs Kansas City Chiefs in Week 13
By John Follett
#1. Cover Travis Kelce
The Chiefs offense may not be overly sexy but they do have Travis Kelce. Yes, the same Travis Kelce of the E Networks’ Catching Kelce.
His good looks and TV personality aside, Travis Kelce can flat out ball. Currently ranked 3rd in receptions and yards for his position, the Kansas City tight end comes into Atlanta following an 8-catch, 101 yard day against Denver. He has posted more than 70 reception yards in 5 games this season; of which the Chiefs won 4.
Covering Kelce is no easy task. He offers the combination of size and speed that presents a perennial mismatch for any defense. Sunday being the first time the Atlanta Falcons line up against Travis Kelce doesn’t make the task any easier.
One would assume a team that faces Greg Olsen twice each season would be well prepared. In reality, the Atlanta Falcons have been one of the worst in covering tight ends. 2015 metrics exposed the Falcons within the bottom 10 for tight end receptions allowed. Things haven’t improved in 2016 where the Falcons currently rank within the bottom 5 for tight end receptions allowed.
Alex Smith will undoubtedly target his Pro Bowl tight end as much as possible on Sunday. It is unreasonable to expect the Falcons to shut Kelce down but mixing up coverage may limit the damage, especially on key down and in the red zone. It’s also worth knowing Travis Kelce recently caught 7 balls for 108 yards in a losing effort against Tampa Bay.