2 min read • December 16, 2021
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Injury Advantage: Chiefs Run Defense
Kansas City’s defense is fairly healthy, but the main injury advantage comes from Chargers star running back Austin Ekeler’s lack of health. Ekeler suffered a mild high ankle sprain last Sunday in the win over the Giants and may not be active for the game.
Even if he is active, don’t expect him to look anything like the three-down running back defenses are accustomed to seeing. The left ankle injury will affect his ability to cut and make defenders miss in open space.
This key limitation will render him ineffective in the passing game and make it difficult for him to burst through holes if the offensive line is able to create lanes for him. Justin Jackson will likely see more carries and action in the passing game, while Larry Rountree III should get carries in short-yardage situations.
The Chargers are also down three starting offensive lineman, with Bryan Bulaga and Oday Aboushi on IR plus left tackle Rashawn Slater on the COVID list.
Kansas City is 14th in rushing yards allowed per game, but should perform better than that against the Chargers’ weakened offensive front. Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert may be the only option for Los Angeles to put points on the board.
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