Obligatory Chiefs vs 49ers Preview

All sports bloggers are required to write a preview and make a prediction about the upcoming game involving their team. It's probably in the contract somewhere, though I've never bothered to read any of the print, fine or not. Anyway, since Jon tells me it's what needs to be done, here's my preview.

Chiefs' Offense vs 49ers' Defense

Mike Nolan's a fine coach, and he's doing some great things with the 49ers. But let's be frank. The 49ers have little defensive talent. They're not the most disciplined of defensive teams, nor do they have Junior Seau-like talent to overcome that lack of discipline. Their defense relies on the element of surprise-- if they call it right, they can stuff the opposing offense. However, if they guess wrong, then they're more susceptible to the big play than probably any other team in the NFL.

The Chiefs' offense isn't without its question marks. Herm Edwards has said he wants to open up the offense. To do that, Larry Johnson needs to get off to a fast start. Even if he starts off slowly, though, he is enough of a threat that he should be able to keep the 49ers' weak secondary off-guard. Whatever trickery Mike Solari has in his playbook, he should utilize this week.

Key 49er: Manny Lawson. It's imperative that he wreak some havoc on both the running game and the passing game.

Key Chief(s): Larry Johnson and Rod Gardner. Simply the threat of Johnson running wild will keep the 49ers' blitzing scheme in check. Gardner needs to take advantage of the secondary and prove first that he belongs, and second that he gives the Chiefs the over-the-middle threat they're lacking from the wide receivers.

49ers' Offense vs. Chiefs' Defense

The 49ers are much improved offensively, but they have some huge question marks this week. Vernon Davis is out, and though he has been inconsistent, he gave the 49ers a deep, over-the-middle threat. Eric Johnson is a fine and dependable tight end, but he doesn't scare teams. The other issue is Frank Gore. Even when healthy, he has been fumble prone this year. This week, even his health is in question. Though his goal-line carries might be limited from now on, he provides that crucial ability to gain yards between the red zones. Alex Smith has been extremely impressive, especially when compared to last year, but he will be tested this week as he sees a wide variety of different coverages.

The Chiefs need to use this game to prove that they can generate a pass rush. The 49ers' offensive line is improved from last year, but still has some question marks. Although the Chiefs' defense has been solid, they're not forcing the issue. This game could be a statement game for them. They need to start forcing more turnovers and cause Alex Smith to make some hurried throws. Get the ball to the offense as quickly as possible, because the more practice the offense can get, the better.

Special Teams

Both kickers look pretty solid and could be in for busy days. Dustin Colquitt was an absolute weapon last game, and if he continues to pin the opponent deep in their territory, the 49ers will have a long day. Dante Hall could benefit from Rod Gardner's presence because he'll be asked to do less as a WR. If Hall breaks one loose, that would be just the spark that Chiefs fans need to get Arrowhead rocking.

Final Prediction: Chiefs 30, 49ers 13. Arrowhead will be a whole new world for Alex Smith, and I think the defense gets that needed turnover and defensive score, while Larry Johnson has the kind of game his fantasy owners have been waiting for.