Persistent Pandemic Problems Change Chiefs' Plans for Facing Pittsburgh

The gloom of COVID-related problems seeped into nearly every fanbase's reality this week, and Chiefs Kingdom was no different. Major pieces missing from the Chiefs roster dominated headlines in Kansas City recently, so let's get that out of the way: KC will be without Lucas Niang, Nick Bolton and Travis Kelce today. Do the Chiefs have what it takes to overcome these absences and beat a desperate Pittsburgh Steelers team at Arrowhead this afternoon?

Any loss to the offensive line built to protect the greatest asset in Chiefs history is clearly a concern, but the Chiefs have successfully protected Patrick Mahomes with occasional replacements to the O-line this season. Nick Bolton looks destined to be one of KC's best defenders for years to come since earning increased playing time throughout the year, and the much-improved Chiefs defense may dearly miss the spark he brings. Then, there's Travis Kelce. His absence leaves a Hall of Famer-sized hole in KC's offensive game plan.

Thankfully for Chiefs Kingdom, Kansas City employs this generation's greatest play-caller. Head coach Andy Reid needs to scheme the Chiefs into some first downs and big plays without Kelce's influence, which should actually be fascinating to watch. We can expect an increased role for other Chiefs pass-catchers like the under-rated Byron Pringle or the underwhelming Mecole Hardman. Despite my curiosity regarding the passing game, the challengers facing the Chiefs today have a major problem on defense completely unrelated to Patrick Mahomes's arm.

This Steelers defense is not what it used to be. Pittsburgh racks up the second-most sacks per game in the NFL, but they also allow the second-most rushing yards per game. The Chiefs drafted a running back in the first round in order to have a major advantage in moments like this. This game seems like it was designed as a Clyde Edwards-Helaire showcase.

Clyde and the rest of KC's capable running backs should give the Chiefs enough firepower to overcome this flawed and aging Steelers team. I predict that Andy will find a few creative ways to keep the offense moving today, and this will help KC earn the W, 27-17.