Three numbers that mattered in Kansas City Chiefs’ 44-23 win vs. San Francisco 49ers
Here are three numbers that helped determine the result of the Kansas City Chiefs’ 44-23 win vs. the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday afternoon at Levi’s Stadium.
86%
This feels like a weekly stat on this report, but it shouldn’t be taken for granted.
Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes is a magician with third-down conversions ... and Sunday was no exception.
KC was 6-for-7 on third-down conversions for a ridiculous 86% conversion rate before coach Andy Reid pulled Mahomes in the fourth quarter. Because of that, Chiefs punter Tommy Townsend got the day off until the backups were in, as KC’s first eight drives ended with six touchdowns, a missed field goal and an interception.
4.3
Skyy Moore’s muffed punt inside the Chiefs’ 15 at the end of the first half brought back visions of the team’s previous loss at Indianapolis.
It didn’t end up affecting the Chiefs, however, because of a standout play from Joshua Williams — and a gutsy call by defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo.
KC brought an all-out blitz on third down, and San Francisco quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo failed to find the uncovered receiver, instead lofting it to the end zone where Williams came away with the jump-ball interception.
According to the metrics at rbsdm.com, the pick was worth 4.3 expected points for the Chiefs — the second-biggest momentum-shifting play, only behind Moore’s original fumble.
5
Following a week when there was a lot of speculation about whether the Chiefs needed to add to their pass rush at the trade deadline ... KC’s defensive line had one of its most dominant days.
The Chiefs posted five sacks — tying their best total of the season — with standout efforts from Frank Clark and Chris Jones. Clark racked up 1 1/2 sacks, which included a fourth-quarter sack for a safety, while Jones (two sacks, forced fumble) dominated when he was lined up outside in passing downs against 49ers right tackle Mike McGlinchey.
This story was originally published October 23, 2022 at 6:32 PM.
