Fixing KC Chiefs’ defense can start with playing Juan Thornhill over Daniel Sorensen

[Hammock Parties]

CO SIGN

https://www.kansascity.com/sports/spt-columns-blogs/sam-mellinger/article255010742.html

Daniel Sorensen should be remembered as an important part of the Chiefs’ first Super Bowl championship in 50 years. He can be part of another winning team. Thus concludes this column’s run of nice words about Daniel Sorensen.

He should no longer be a starting safety for the Chiefs, starting with Sunday’s game at Washington. His deficiencies are not just outweighing his positive impact, but he has by now crossed that awful threshold from yeah-but-there-are-other-problems to holy-smokes-this-is-just-unsustainable. It’s time for Juan Thornhill to start, and for him to get the 98% of snaps that have so far been Sorensen’s.

“Overall we haven’t been good,” Chiefs defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo said. “That’s a true statement. That’s reality. To focus on one person I don’t think is fair. Did Dan struggle a little bit last week? Yeah.”

Spagnuolo is being gracious. Sorensen is Pro Football Focus’ third-lowest graded safety, earning the lowest tackling grade and fourth-lowest coverage grade among 61 safeties with at least 50% of their team’s snaps.

But we don’t need PFF’s numbers here. Sorensen has played poorly in all five games this season and was yell-out-loud terrible against the Bills. He repeatedly misses tackles and had two snaps where he was the primary coverage defender on passes that went for a combined 114 yards.

You might remember these as the plays where fellow safety Tyrann Mathieu threw his hands in the air in exasperation, and in the post-game press conference left no doubt what he was feeling.

“I felt like we were in a fairly decent coverage, so you don’t expect anybody to be wide open,” Mathieu said when asked about his hands-in-air pose. “I do that on good plays, as well. But, yeah. Kind of embarrassing.”

Mathieu is a good person to bring into this, actually. He is the heartbeat of the Chiefs’ defense, and has been since arriving as a free agent before the 2019 Super Bowl season. He hasn’t been great so far this season, either — nobody on defense has, really — but it’s hard to think of a solution to the Chiefs’ problems on defense that doesn’t involve Mathieu.

This is a little bit of speculation, but the situation is further complicated by Mathieu’s contract situation. Chiefs general manager Brett Veach has been clear that the team wants to sign Mathieu long-term, and Mathieu has said he’d like to stay.

The Chiefs can’t want these frustrations to change that dynamic, either by raising the price of an extension or by tempting Mathieu to look around. If Mathieu is saying these things out loud, then we can only imagine what he and others are saying and feeling in private.

This part is not speculation: Mathieu’s frustrations are a symptom of what everyone else in the locker room is seeing. Successful football teams are built largely on effort and cohesion, and nothing can torpedo morale more effectively than the feeling that a group isn’t all-in together. If 10 guys feel like they’re doing their job on a snap ruined by one man’s failure, well, that’s when guys start checking out.

This past week, leading up to the Washington game, happened to be one of those weeks in which the Chiefs made some of their assistant coaches available to media, including defensive backs coach Dave Merritt. He was asked about the primary problem in the secondary and referenced eye discipline three times in his answer. Then he was asked what he meant by that.

“If I’m looking at you and I’m supposed to be watching you, I gotta watch you,” Merritt said. “I can’t all of a sudden go watch someone else. So whether you’re coaching pop Warner, little league, your kids in basketball, if that’s your man, you teach your kids to cover that guy. “You don’t turn around and just start looking somewhere else: ‘Oh, there’s a bird, oh there’s a butterfly.’ No, you cover your guy. That’s what I mean.”

It was hard to hear that and not think about the long pass last Sunday to Bills tight end Dawson Knox. Sorensen was in good position on the play until he started looking back at the quarterback and lost track of his man.

The Chiefs have passed the point where they can still play Sorensen over Thornhill and retain credibility. And look, the problems are not all Sorensen’s fault. He’s doing the best he can. He is what he is — 31 years old, a regular starter for just the third time in eight years. A veteran with fading athleticism being regularly exposed by opponents who are increasingly thirsty over what they see on tape.

I want to be clear about something here. I’m not sure I’ve ever written a column calling for one player to rise above another on the depth chart. Not because I’ve never had my opinions, but because those opinions are outweighed by the fundamental truth that the coaches want to win and have vastly more information than sportswriters or fans.

And there must be some reason that Sorensen has been playing over Thornhill. Maybe there’s a confidence issue related to coming back from an ACL tear late in the 2019 season. Maybe it’s because he couldn’t take part in OTAs, and/or because he experienced a minor injury setback in the preseason. Maybe it’s something else that we have no way of seeing.

But the time has come. As a rookie, Thornhill and Tyrann Mathieu formed one of the league’s best safety pairings until Thornhill’s injury. At his best, Thornhill has the classic center-field range of a free safety, the speed to run with fast receivers and a skill-set that complements Mathieu’s.

At this point, if he’s not better than what we’ve seen from Sorensen, the Chiefs have even bigger problems than we thought.

[scho63]

Well duh!

[RunKC]

Dirty Dan used to be a very good 3rd safety but that was 2 years years ago. He’s 31 years old and it shows.

He’s played out

[Wallcrawler]

In other news, the sun rose this morning.

[Hammock Parties]

I still think he could be a very good 20 snaps a game nickel linebacker.

But keep him out of the deep secondary.

[Abba-Dabba]

After listening to Spucks yesterday I have zero faith that will happen.

[Rainbarrel]

Dan's tape from this year is what you play Tyrann in contract negotiations. It happens quickly.

[DaFace]

<iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/5YAgxocUe9HUI" width="480" height="386" frameBorder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowFullScreen></iframe><p><a href="https://giphy.com/gifs/brazil-germany-beat-5YAgxocUe9HUI">via GIPHY</a></p>

[Ken Bone]

Fire Spags and bring back Bob Sutton. Will that fit on a banner?

[The Franchise]

17 missed tackles in 5 games.

17. MISSED. FUCKING. TACKLES.

[Hammock Parties]

17 missed tackles in 5 games.

17. MISSED. FUCKING. TACKLES.

you'll never see a coverage grade this bad

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/FBv3RGcX0AgY8Xa?format=jpg&name=large

[PAChiefsGuy]

Dude is washed. Bench him for the love of God! It's embarrassing...

[UChieffyBugger]

After listening to Spucks yesterday I have zero faith that will happen.

I heard on a podcast that word from practice this week is Thornhill was taking snaps away fron Dan...i would be utterly stunned if Spags didn't change things.

[suzzer99]

I can't believe there are 2 worse safeties.

[ModSocks]

I heard on a podcast that word from practice this week is Thornhill was taking snaps away fron Dan...i would be utterly stunned if Spags didn't change things.

No one cares what you heard. Kick rocks.

[Hydrae]

Part of the issue is that Dan's skill set (haha!) is to play closer to the line which leaves Tyrann playing the deep role. With Juan, he can play the deep role which would free Tyrann up to play closer to the line where he is more effective. Even playing Armani deep would help with this adjustment.

Did you know, Thornhill was on the field early against the Browns? During that short time, Tyrann had both of his interceptions. Coincidence? I think not.

FREE JUAN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[UChieffyBugger]

No one cares what you heard. Kick rocks.

:deevee:

ROFL

[The Franchise]

Part of the issue is that Dan's skill set (haha!) is to play closer to the line which leaves Tyrann playing the deep role. With Juan, he can play the deep role which would free Tyrann up to play closer to the line where he is more effective. Even playing Armani deep would help with this adjustment.

Did you know, Thornhill was on the field early against the Browns? During that short time, Tyrann had both of his interceptions. Coincidence? I think not.

FREE JUAN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

When our defense was decent….it was because Thornhill covered deep, Sorenson played close to the line and Mathieu was allowed to roam.

[CoMoChief]

Sorensen never had the necessary athleticism to begin with, was always a couple steps too slow, and it's being exposed now that he's aging and skills are declining.

[staylor26]

I’ve defended Dirty Dan over the years, but it couldn’t be more obvious that he’s washed at this point. It’s beyond time to give Thornhill the starting job alongside Mathieu.

Between replacing him with Thornhill and adding Gay, this defense will look a lot faster.

[scho63]

Sorensen is too fucking slow to play deep and too old to play 100% of the snaps.

Even the least educated fan can see this.

[-King-]

When our defense was decent….it was because Thornhill covered deep, Sorenson played close to the line and Mathieu was allowed to roam.

Yeah but what if we changed every single one of their roles? Wouldn't that be brilliant!

-Spags

[petegz28]

https://memegenerator.net/img/instances/24245250.jpg

[ThaVirus]

I still think he could be a very good 20 snaps a game nickel linebacker.

You want the league leader in missed tackles in at linebacker?

[Hammock Parties]

You want the league leader in missed tackles in at linebacker?

Better in coverage than Niemann and Hitchens.

[Hog's Gone Fishin]

I'm starting to get convinced now,

Still leads the team in tackles! :harumph:

[PAChiefsGuy]

Better in coverage than Niemann and Hitchens.

But also worse against the run, yeah no thanks....

[PAChiefsGuy]

I’ve defended Dirty Dan over the years, but it couldn’t be more obvious that he’s washed at this point. It’s beyond time to give Thornhill the starting job alongside Mathieu.

Between replacing him with Thornhill and adding Gay, this defense will look a lot faster.

And move Chris Jones back inside give Dana more snaps and D should do a lot better.

[Hammock Parties]

But also worse against the run, yeah no thanks....

let them run

[OnTheWarpath15]

I'm usually not "that guy" when it comes to injury - but if the Chiefs are telling the truth and Chris Jones is missing another game with a "wrist contusion" - especially considering other guys are playing with broken fucking bones - then fuck Chris Jones.

This shit is getting old.

[Hammock Parties]

It's more serious than just a "wrist contusion."

He probably has a severe strain that risks a torn tendon if he doesn't rest it.

[petegz28]

You want the league leader in missed tackles in at linebacker?

Better in coverage than Niemann and Hitchens.

But also worse against the run, yeah no thanks....

let them run

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C4KZM7xWEAEIHEr.jpg

[TEX]

Aren't things like defenses supposed to get fixed in the off season? :shrug:

[TEX]

I'm usually not "that guy" when it comes to injury - but if the Chiefs are telling the truth and Chris Jones is missing another game with a "wrist contusion" - especially considering other guys are playing with broken ****ing bones - then **** Chris Jones.

This shit is getting old.

Yep.

[TEX]

Yeah but what if we changed every single one of their roles? Wouldn't that be brilliant!

-Spags

AND then move our All Pro DT to DE!!!

[Hammock Parties]

https://scontent.fmkc1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.30808-6/245444016_5396937246987959_4043382875033589696_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-5&_nc_sid=730e14&_nc_ohc=3zKchi-0zPYAX9dhdbz&_nc_oc=AQlvWj0XGc4Tetx3irfT7J44dMVHyqs5grDoRrWiRik6N7FLMf-GjgR1t4iGSEuYfm7eQVtnJqXhOzRYra7k8px2&_nc_ht=scontent.fmkc1-1.fna&oh=59ee51012ceff94dd209ab1905870424&oe=616EE5EF

[Marcellus]

Aren't things like defenses supposed to get fixed in the off season? :shrug:

Serious question. Where you not thinking the defense wasn’t going to be better this off season?

[Sofa King]

https://scontent.fmkc1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.30808-6/245444016_5396937246987959_4043382875033589696_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-5&_nc_sid=730e14&_nc_ohc=3zKchi-0zPYAX9dhdbz&_nc_oc=AQlvWj0XGc4Tetx3irfT7J44dMVHyqs5grDoRrWiRik6N7FLMf-GjgR1t4iGSEuYfm7eQVtnJqXhOzRYra7k8px2&_nc_ht=scontent.fmkc1-1.fna&oh=59ee51012ceff94dd209ab1905870424&oe=616EE5EF

About fucking time.

[FloridaMan88]

Andy/Spags will lose the locker room at least on defense if they don’t bench Sorensen for Thornhill.

You can see the visible frustration with the Honey Badger’s on the field disgust with Sorensen’s continued incompetence.

[KCUnited]

Moving a premier interior pass rusher outside and sticking with the a bottom 3 tackler at his position over another player.

In addition to the shit talent on D, its been a total fail at the decision maker position as well.

[T-post Tom]

Hitchens is playing every bit as bad as Sorensen. Need a change there ASA (Reasonably) P.

[TEX]

Moving a premier interior pass rusher outside and sticking with the a bottom 3 tackler at his position over another player.

In addition to the shit talent on D, its been a total fail at the decision maker position as well.

So MUCH THIS.

[TEX]

Andy/Spags will lose the locker room at least on defense if they don’t bench Sorensen for Thornhill.

You can see the visible frustration with the Honey Badger’s on the field disgust with Sorensen’s continued incompetence.

No they won't. And HB is a diva. This is the part of his personality that I had hoped not to see in KC. But right when extreme adversity is in play, it surfaces. But, I do agree that we need to see more of Thornhill and less if Sorensen. Also need to see more of CJ inside and less outside. Less Neiman would be nice also.

[PAChiefsGuy]

Hitchens is playing every bit as bad as Sorensen. Need a change there ASA (Reasonably) P.

Hitchens is slow and not the best tackler. Agree completely. Time to move on

[oldman]

Benching Sorenson for Thornhill will not fix this D. Benching Hitchens for (name LB of the week) will not fix this D. Moving Jones back inside will not fix this D. I'm all for playing Dirty Dan as a nickel safety/LB, but not 100% of the snaps but is Thornhill ready? Would a new extension for HB make him a happy camper? I wonder how a slimmed down Jones would do on the inside. Is the duo of Bolton and Gay ready to take on the NFL? I can't answer any of those questions but somethings have to change or we have no chance for a playoff spot, much less a SB run.

[Coogs]

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/DLNiAA01HHU?start=377" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>

absolutely disgraceful of hitchens!

Benching Sorenson for Thornhill will not fix this D. Benching Hitchens for (name LB of the week) will not fix this D. Moving Jones back inside will not fix this D. I'm all for playing Dirty Dan as a nickel safety/LB, but not 100% of the snaps but is Thornhill ready? Would a new extension for HB make him a happy camper? I wonder how a slimmed down Jones would do on the inside. Is the duo of Bolton and Gay ready to take on the NFL? I can't answer any of those questions but somethings have to change or we have no chance for a playoff spot, much less a SB run.

Have you seen this video and watched the Hitchen's play? It's worth your time too watch.

[oldman]

My point was Hitchens isn't the only problem.

[Coogs]

My point was Hitchens isn't the only problem.

I knew that. This video and analysis of a play goes a long way to explaining some things. No receiver on Hitchens side, yet he bails out... while seeing the pass being made to the back right in front of him.

Sorensen abandoing coverage responsibilities on TD pass to come up in run support when guys were in position to defend the run.

No pass rush.

Problems are multiple.

Watch this video breakdown by Simm's. It is damning of many issues.

[Hammock Parties]

Jesus Christ.

One thing about the Sorensen/Thornhill dynamic that is so puzzling...Thornhill has played 142 snaps and only has given up one completion in three targets, with one missed tackle.

Sorensen though, with these numbers, has been on the field for 325 snaps.

Even Thornhill's mediocre 2020 season puts Dan to shame.

In 2021, Sorensen has already allowed more TDs and has more missed tackles than Thornhill had all of last season.

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/FB1HkqgX0AMMemJ?format=jpg&name=large

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/FBmM8m5X0AANzOp?format=jpg&name=large

[seamonster]

Sunday's a litmus test for Sorensen. Henike has excellent anticipation and makes throws but his #1 is out. So it's up to some rookies and practice squad players to run Scot Turners scheme. If Sorenson can't disrupt plays or get's burned by these receivers he should be outright cut.

[Chiefspants]

Jesus Christ.

One thing about the Sorensen/Thornhill dynamic that is so puzzling...Thornhill has played 142 snaps and only has given up one completion in three targets, with one missed tackle.

Sorensen though, with these numbers, has been on the field for 325 snaps.

Even Thornhill's mediocre 2020 season puts Dan to shame.

In 2021, Sorensen has already allowed more TDs and has more missed tackles than Thornhill had all of last season.

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/FB1HkqgX0AMMemJ?format=jpg&name=large

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/FBmM8m5X0AANzOp?format=jpg&name=large

If Spags was trying to prove a point by putting Thornhill in the doghouse ala Todd Haley that's something that needs to be addressed in the offseason. A good Thornhill on the field could have absolutely changed the outcome of the Ravens and Chargers games.

[Hammock Parties]

I’ve been told Thornhill will start tomorrow. They are switching roles.

[T-post Tom]

I’ve been told Thornhill will start tomorrow. They are switching roles.

Heard that on 610 yesterday. Hope it’s true.

[Grit for Brains]

I’ve been told Thornhill will start tomorrow. They are switching roles.

Sweet. Now what about the non existent pass rush?

[Chiefspants]

Sweet. Now what about the non existent pass rush?

Gotta start somewhere.

[LongSufferingToady]

Sorenson's play has been abysmal. But no one player is going to fix the Chief's defense. It's awful in every aspect of their play.

[Chiefspants]

Sorenson's play has been abysmal. But no one player is going to fix the Chief's defense. It's awful in every aspect of their play.

Gotta start somewhere. One player doesn't feel like much, but Mike Pennel sure made a difference in the 2019 squad.

[Pasta Little Brioni]

Sorenson's play has been abysmal. But no one player is going to fix the Chief's defense. It's awful in every aspect of their play.

No but it can certainly help. We need just need 1 TD drive stopped a game and if he helps make a play to get the defense off the field there you go

[Hammock Parties]

Sweet. Now what about the non existent pass rush?

Not facing elite QBs and OLs will help. Gotta get Jones back.

[dlphg9]

Serious question. Where you not thinking the defense wasn’t going to be better this off season?

Let me ask you this question. Have you ever said or insinuated that we shouldn't question the coaching staff about which players are playing over others?

Because the coaches thought the moves would improve this defense and Tex was just going along with them. He now has the right to question why did they not actually improve the D.

I'd say Veach was infatuated with overpaying again for a guy (Trent Williams) and spent all his time trying to get him.

[Hammock Parties]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Confirmed with <a href="https://twitter.com/HaroldRKuntz3?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HaroldRKuntz3</a> today on <a href="https://twitter.com/THESPOKENpod?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@THESPOKENpod</a> that he’s also heard that Juan Thornhill will in fact replace Daniel Sorensen in the Chiefs starting lineup.</p>&mdash; �� (@LanceTHESPOKEN) <a href="https://twitter.com/LanceTHESPOKEN/status/1449515772204748801?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 16, 2021</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

[Coochie liquor]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Confirmed with <a href="https://twitter.com/HaroldRKuntz3?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HaroldRKuntz3</a> today on <a href="https://twitter.com/THESPOKENpod?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@THESPOKENpod</a> that he’s also heard that Juan Thornhill will in fact replace Daniel Sorensen in the Chiefs starting lineup.</p>&mdash; �� (@LanceTHESPOKEN) <a href="https://twitter.com/LanceTHESPOKEN/status/1449515772204748801?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 16, 2021</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The turnaround, and beginning of a winning streak starts tomorrow.

[arrwheader]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Confirmed with <a href="https://twitter.com/HaroldRKuntz3?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HaroldRKuntz3</a> today on <a href="https://twitter.com/THESPOKENpod?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@THESPOKENpod</a> that he’s also heard that Juan Thornhill will in fact replace Daniel Sorensen in the Chiefs starting lineup.</p>— �� (@LanceTHESPOKEN) <a href="https://twitter.com/LanceTHESPOKEN/status/1449515772204748801?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 16, 2021</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>Well hot dam

Sent from my Pixel 3a using Tapatalk

[Sure-Oz]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Confirmed with <a href="https://twitter.com/HaroldRKuntz3?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HaroldRKuntz3</a> today on <a href="https://twitter.com/THESPOKENpod?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@THESPOKENpod</a> that he’s also heard that Juan Thornhill will in fact replace Daniel Sorensen in the Chiefs starting lineup.</p>— �� (@LanceTHESPOKEN) <a href="https://twitter.com/LanceTHESPOKEN/status/1449515772204748801?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 16, 2021</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>Still don't get why he hasnt been starting in the first place.

[Bump]

ya, he has done very poorly this season. Made a great play against the Browns that helped win it. But has given up way too many big plays.

[Redbled]

It sure as heck can’t get worse.

[BigRedChief]

ya, he has done very poorly this season. Made a great play against the Browns that helped win it. But has given up way too many big plays.It sure as heck can’t get worse.Safeties can get slow and old pretty quick. I don’t think Thornhill is a panacea for the defense but playing Sorenson 100% of every play sure the fuck ain’t working.

[BossChief]

I'm usually not "that guy" when it comes to injury - but if the Chiefs are telling the truth and Chris Jones is missing another game with a "wrist contusion" - especially considering other guys are playing with broken fucking bones - then fuck Chris Jones.

This shit is getting old.

It definitely sucks that as soon as we pay a FA, he gives us minimal ROI damn near every time. Houston, Berry, Hitchens, Frank (minus the second half of his first year here and the playoffs/super bowl), Jones, I could go on but it already hurts.

JPP blew his hand up and lined up to play.

Tape it up, club it up. Just get out there and help your team.

As a DT.

[staylor26]

Let me ask you this question. Have you ever said or insinuated that we shouldn't question the coaching staff about which players are playing over others?

Because the coaches thought the moves would improve this defense and Tex was just going along with them. He now has the right to question why did they not actually improve the D.

I'd say Veach was infatuated with overpaying again for a guy (Trent Williams) and spent all his time trying to get him.

What a stupid fucking take.

You mean Veach was concerned with the most glaring need on the team and went after the top free agent at that position? Then when it didn’t work out he went with a solid plan B?

Oh the horror!

This is stupid fucking revisionist history.

If he didn’t solve the glaring need at LT, morons like you would be bitching about that instead.

[Tribesman]

It definitely sucks that as soon as we pay a FA, he gives us minimal ROI damn near every time. Houston, Berry, Hitchens, Frank (minus the second half of his first year here and the playoffs/super bowl), Jones, I could go on but it already hurts.

JPP blew his hand up and lined up to play.

Tape it up, club it up. Just get out there and help your team.

As a DT.

Definitely seems to be true on the D. The offensive signings have mostly panned out.

[bevischief]

If you are top 15 defense: contact Clark Hunt. He is need help.

[bevischief]

He over pays for crap.

[TEX]

Definitely seems to be true on the D. The offensive signings have mostly panned out.

That's why I'm don't care who they cut, keep or trade on defense next season. They're all expensive to me, including Spags.

[Hammock Parties]

PLAYMAKER

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">After <a href="https://twitter.com/Juan_Thornhill?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Juan_Thornhill</a> made this devastating tackle for loss, the Chiefs went on a 21-0 run to end the game. <br>DPOY? <a href="https://t.co/hVeYCBesSf">pic.twitter.com/hVeYCBesSf</a></p>&mdash; Kali Mahomes (@ClayWendler) <a href="https://twitter.com/ClayWendler/status/1449839296438063104?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2021</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

[Hammock Parties]

CHIEFS SNAP COUNTS - WEEK 6

Daniel Sorensen: 19 (32%)
Juan Thornhill: 59 (100%)

That is all.

[jd1020]

PLAYMAKER

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">After <a href="https://twitter.com/Juan_Thornhill?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Juan_Thornhill</a> made this devastating tackle for loss, the Chiefs went on a 21-0 run to end the game. <br>DPOY? <a href="https://t.co/hVeYCBesSf">pic.twitter.com/hVeYCBesSf</a></p>&mdash; Kali Mahomes (@ClayWendler) <a href="https://twitter.com/ClayWendler/status/1449839296438063104?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2021</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

:LOL:

Not quite what I imagined a "devastating" tackle to look like.

[notorious]

Niemann is next.

[Sassy Squatch]

CHIEFS SNAP COUNTS - WEEK 6

Daniel Sorensen: 19 (32%)
Juan Thornhill: 59 (100%)

That is all.
LMAO They literally did swap playing time. Good.

[Hammock Parties]

Niemann is next.

Nobody else to play at MLB. Niemann might be a better option there than Hitchens. Hitchens is done.

[Sassy Squatch]

Nobody else to play at MLB. Niemann might be a better option there than Hitchens. Hitchens is done.
McKinney or Foster, perhaps?

[Hammock Parties]

McKinney or Foster, perhaps?

Chiefs are going to be in the nickel a ton anyway.

Boils down to wanting Niemann, Bolton or Sorensen on the field as your second LB.

[MahomesMagic]

Chiefs are going to be in the nickel a ton anyway.

Boils down to wanting Niemann, Bolton or Sorensen on the field as your second LB.

In running situations, Nieman.

Passing, Sorenson.

[Lzen]

:LOL:

Not quite what I imagined a "devastating" tackle to look like.

Yeah, I was thinking the same thing. But at least it was read and attacked quickly by Thornhill. If Sorenson had been in that position, it probably would have gone for a first down.

[Marcellus]

What a stupid ****ing take.

You mean Veach was concerned with the most glaring need on the team and went after the top free agent at that position? Then when it didn’t work out he went with a solid plan B?

Oh the horror!

This is stupid ****ing revisionist history.

If he didn’t solve the glaring need at LT, morons like you would be bitching about that instead.

Not only that he as usual entirely missed the point.

Veach went out and got Reed, he traded for Hughes, and drafted Bolton. The idea they didn't do anything to try to improve the defense is just stupid and revisionist and like I asked earlier, did CP not think the defense was going to be better? Yea I am certain we all expected a solid or even above average defense. Now everyone is an expert who knew it was going to be historically bad suddenly.

Stupid motherfuckers act like the front office new the defense was going to be historically bad and didn't care.

[Red Dawg]

Niemann is next.

If he's benched then who will be left to slow down the other team on their way to end zone. Tell me that genius.

[Skyy God]

Niemann is next.

Gay got the start over Niemann.

Latter gonna play more if Hitch’s elbow is serious, obvi.

[duncan_idaho]

Gay got the start over Niemann.

Latter gonna play more if Hitch’s elbow is serious, obvi.

You'd hope that would mean Bolton in the middle with the green dot and Gay playing an OLB role.

[Meatloaf]

Bolton may not be the fastest LB in the league, but for a rookie, he’s pretty damn good. Plus, the guy KNOWS HOW TO TACKLE. Might be the best wrap-up guy on the team. And as the draft guru’s noted, his football instincts are excellent. Heck, I’d much rather see him in the middle than Hitchens……I fear Hitch’s best days are behind him.

PS. I’m a KU guy, so I’m not one to acknowledge anything good about any Mizzou guy, but damn if I’m not impresssed with Bolton. Just needs to improve his coverage skills.

[MAHOMO 4 LIFE!]

DOD needs snaps

[New World Order]

I like Sorensen blitzing but that’s about it

[duncan_idaho]

Bolton may not be the fastest LB in the league, but for a rookie, he’s pretty damn good. Plus, the guy KNOWS HOW TO TACKLE. Might be the best wrap-up guy on the team. And as the draft guru’s noted, his football instincts are excellent. Heck, I’d much rather see him in the middle than Hitchens……I fear Hitch’s best days are behind him.

PS. I’m a KU guy, so I’m not one to acknowledge anything good about any Mizzou guy, but damn if I’m not impresssed with Bolton. Just needs to improve his coverage skills.

I'm not sure his coverage skills are ever going to be "good" but they will look better in the middle of the field, where he has less green to cover/be accountable for. That would let his instincts play up.

He arrives with some authority and is kind of like Bobby Wagner in that if he gets his hands on you, you're USUALLY going down.

[RaidersOftheCellar]

The defense isn't historically bad. Sorenson was historically bad against Buffalo.

There's no reason that this defense can't be at or close to the level of last year's, when healthy.

[O.city]

I'm not sure his coverage skills are ever going to be "good" but they will look better in the middle of the field, where he has less green to cover/be accountable for. That would let his instincts play up.

He arrives with some authority and is kind of like Bobby Wagner in that if he gets his hands on you, you're USUALLY going down.

I'd really like to get Bolton in the middle and get a big thumper type SLB that is a good blitzer, then a hybrid type safety that can play the Sorenson role.

I think two legit athletes in those spots would help.

[Hammock Parties]

The defense isn't historically bad. Sorenson was historically bad against Buffalo.

There's no reason that this defense can't be at or close to the level of last year's, when healthy.

No Jones or Ward and we shut that ass down.

We're coming for everyone's souls.

The run is underway.

[duncan_idaho]

I'd really like to get Bolton in the middle and get a big thumper type SLB that is a good blitzer, then a hybrid type safety that can play the Sorenson role.

I think two legit athletes in those spots would help.

Yeah, and that SLB role is one that typically is not super hard to find, either in draft capital or on the FA market.

That hybrid S role would be one of my higher priorities in the offseason, right up there with DE and WR2.


The defense isn't historically bad. Sorenson was historically bad against Buffalo.

There's no reason that this defense can't be at or close to the level of last year's, when healthy.

It really is remarkable how much not having a deep safety who can be targeted at will for long gains and easy TDs changed the defense.

Heinecke didn't play great but the guy wasn't Nathan Pederman out there, either. I think it is reasonable to draw some confidence for improvement from that performance against Washington. Thornhill and Fenton make a big difference for this squad.

Not to make it political, but I have come to understand Sorenson is one of the few non-vaccinated players on the team. Which affects his ability to be around his teammates and prepare.

For a guy whose preparation has been so critical in the past to him even being an adequate player, I do wonder if that lack of time in the video room is the biggest culprit for the precipitous drop in his play.

[duncan_idaho]

No Jones or Ward and we shut that ass down.

We're coming for everyone's souls.

The run is underway.

Hopefully Hughes is the guy who goes to the bench when Ward is back.

[TLO]

Hopefully Hughes is the guy who goes to the bench when Ward is back.

Yes please.

Fenton has looked solid.

[O.city]

I haven't really noticed Hughes being bad. I mean, he's not Ramsey but for a CB I think he's been fine?

I'd pour all my resources into rushing the passer and the front 7.

[Hammock Parties]

Hughes is actually perfect for the nickel. He's just really bad outside.

[RunKC]

I haven't really noticed Hughes being bad. I mean, he's not Ramsey but for a CB I think he's been fine?

I'd pour all my resources into rushing the passer and the front 7.

Spags and his staff have done a nice job with the secondary. Fenton, Sneed, Landlord, Thornhill. They know how to find and help DB’s.

If we can just get a productive pass rusher we’ll be in business

[Sofa King]

I’d like to see what DeAndre Baker could do.

[dlphg9]

What a stupid ****ing take.

You mean Veach was concerned with the most glaring need on the team and went after the top free agent at that position? Then when it didn’t work out he went with a solid plan B?

Oh the horror!

This is stupid ****ing revisionist history.

If he didn’t solve the glaring need at LT, morons like you would be bitching about that instead.

Lmao, you're so weird. Literally going thread to thread to white knight for Brett Veach. Are you his mom?

[Hammock Parties]

damn patrick absolutely savage

https://i.imgur.com/XG6zHVk.jpg

[staylor26]

Lmao, you're so weird. Literally going thread to thread to white knight for Brett Veach. Are you his mom?

Nice rebuttal!

At least you realize how stupid your take was I guess.

[Pitt Gorilla]

What a stupid ****ing take.

You mean Veach was concerned with the most glaring need on the team and went after the top free agent at that position? Then when it didn’t work out he went with a solid plan B?

Oh the horror!

This is stupid ****ing revisionist history.

If he didn’t solve the glaring need at LT, morons like you would be bitching about that instead.
Yeah, it sucks that Veach can't do more than one thing at a time. Just imagine if he had focused on the draft!

[staylor26]

Yeah, it sucks that Veach can't do more than one thing at a time. Just imagine if he had focused on the draft!

I also love the narrative that he did nothing while they were waiting on Trent Williams when they literally signed Thuney and were clearly working on getting other guys like JuJu during that time.

[tyreekthefreak]

damn patrick absolutely savage

https://i.imgur.com/XG6zHVk.jpg

That can't be real?

[Hammock Parties]

it's an edit LMAO

[Hammock Parties]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">It&#39;s PFF, but...<br><br>Juan Thornhill had a 78.1 grade on Sunday. PFF credited him with giving up 2 receptions for -1 yard. He also played 100% of the snaps.<br><br>It was the WFT, but...I think that speaks for itself.</p>&mdash; Conner Christopherson (@Conner_DKC) <a href="https://twitter.com/Conner_DKC/status/1450129966855827464?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 18, 2021</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

[Hammock Parties]

Passing yards allowed by Chiefs defenders, best to worst.

Gay 19
Thornhill 71
Fenton 155
Mathieu 163
Hitchens 166
Ward 176
Niemann 193
Bolton 242
Hughes 252
Sneed 314
Sorensen 356

[ThaVirus]

Sneed's in a weird place. I feel like he's either making a huge play or a terrible play.

He's the only DB who can consistently pressure the QB, secure a sack, and blow up a screen or run in the backfield. Then he'll make a play like the one where he trips over his own feet on what would have been the easiest pick 6 of his career against the Giants or get torched by some garbage can TE.

[staylor26]

Sneed's in a weird place. I feel like he's either making a huge play or a terrible play.

He's the only DB who can consistently pressure the QB, secure a sack, and blow up a screen or run in the backfield. Then he'll make a play like the one where he trips over his own feet on what would have been the easiest pick 6 of his career against the Giants or get torched by some garbage can TE.

It’s almost as if he’s a young talented player that’s being asked to do a lot with very little help from our pass rush.

Sneed is fine, and would probably look much better if we had any kind of pass rush.

[wachashi]

I've got our next defensive strategy next time we're in a "got to have it" third-down situation.

Let's put Sorenson in knowing with 100% certainty that he'll be targeted. Line him up in what appears to be one-on-one coverage vs the other team's number one receiver for good measure.

The defense as a whole will immediately cheat over to Sorenson's man post-snap. QB is locked in on Sorenson and is too greedy to bail from his predetermined read, forcing a throw for an interception.

It's the Dirty Dan Decoy.

Game, blouses.

[AdolfOliverBush]

It’s almost as if he’s a young talented player that’s being asked to do a lot with very little help from our pass rush.

Sneed is fine, and would probably look much better if we had any kind of pass rush.

Plus, he likely trying do his own job and cover for Sorenson at the same time. LMAO

[DJ's left nut]

Thornhill's speed and range looks like it's back to his rookie year levels.

I'd really be trying hard to extend him. I know there are a few other FAs that need to be addressed but Reid/Thornhill/Cook for a team that utilizes 3 safety looks as often as we do would be just a spectacular 3-4 year setup. That's a true single high centerfielder in Juan, a downhill aggressive box safety in Cook and a bit of a hybrid of both in Reid.

He'd be my priority sign at this point and if you can get him on a discount deal, it's time to make it happen before he gets to the market. He's back - conduct yourself accordingly.

[TwistedChief]

Thornhill's speed and range looks like it's back to his rookie year levels.

I'd really be trying hard to extend him. I know there are a few other FAs that need to be addressed but Reid/Thornhill/Cook for a team that utilizes 3 safety looks as often as we do would be just a spectacular 3-4 year setup. That's a true single high centerfielder in Juan, a downhill aggressive box safety in Cook and a bit of a hybrid of both in Reid.

He'd be my priority sign at this point and if you can get him on a discount deal, it's time to make it happen before he gets to the market. He's back - conduct yourself accordingly.

I completely agree but did you really have to bump this of all Thornhill threads to remind us that Spags' playing Sorenson over Thornhill was an actual thing?! Ugh. The defense at the beginning of last season was so tragic.

He did look great the other day. Truly flying around. Our secondary has the potential to be special.

[RockChalk]

Speaking of Dirty Dan, it would appear he was active but didn't play a single snap on defense. At least Saints coaches recognized right away what a worthless POS he is on defense.

[BWillie]

Speaking of Dirty Dan, it would appear he was active but didn't play a single snap on defense. At least Saints coaches recognized right away what a worthless POS he is on defense.

Spags would have him playing 30 snaps a game. Thank you Veach for protecting this man from himself.

[DJ's left nut]

I completely agree but did you really have to bump this of all Thornhill threads to remind us that Spags' playing Sorenson over Thornhill was an actual thing?! Ugh. The defense at the beginning of last season was so tragic.

He did look great the other day. Truly flying around. Our secondary has the potential to be special.

It was the most recent thread I could find with Thornhill in the title. Sorry.

[mnchiefsguy]

Thornhill's speed and range looks like it's back to his rookie year levels.

I'd really be trying hard to extend him. I know there are a few other FAs that need to be addressed but Reid/Thornhill/Cook for a team that utilizes 3 safety looks as often as we do would be just a spectacular 3-4 year setup. That's a true single high centerfielder in Juan, a downhill aggressive box safety in Cook and a bit of a hybrid of both in Reid.

He'd be my priority sign at this point and if you can get him on a discount deal, it's time to make it happen before he gets to the market. He's back - conduct yourself accordingly.

I agree. Always liked the kid and am glad he is getting back to being the safety we thought we were getting when he was drafted.