"Some questioned whether the game should have been played as scheduled. Hunt said the decision was left to Crennel and the team, and when the Chiefs emerged from the tunnel before the noon kickoff — “Ladies and gentlemen, let’s hear it for coach Romeo Crennel and your Kansas City Chiefs!” — the ovation from the announced crowd of 62,860 was louder than what might be expected.
In the moment of silence, which preceding the National Anthem, Belcher wasn’t mentioned.
“In recognition of yesterday’s tragic events we ask that fans join the Chiefs organization in a moment of silence to remember all victims of domestic violence and their families.”
But players also remembered their teammate, Perkins and their daughter.
In the locker room, some wore T-shirts that included a photo of Belcher and “Rest in Peace.” Wide receiver Dexter McCluster, whose locker is next to Belcher’s, wore his during interviews.
As the last players filed in from the field, Pioli could be seen hugging each player. The doors closed and Crennel delivered perhaps the most emotional postgame speech of his career.
“You overcame a lot, you stuck together as team like we talked about, helped each other, family and friends, you relied on those people or you relied on your faith to help get you through this,” Crennel said. “And we got through it, in a grand way because everyone made a contribution, everybody helped. And that’s what a team is about.” "
After tragedy, emotions surge at Arrowhead Stadium