Dexter McCluster fumbled the opening snap of the game, sending the Chiefs on defense for the first drive for the Buffalo Bills on Sunday at Arrowhead stadium. Ryan Fitzpatrick then threw to Scott Chandler for a 12 yard touchdown throw to take the lead.
Midway through the first quarter Fitzpatrick hit Stevie Johnson leaping over the 5′ 9″, 4th year pro, Brandon Flowers to score the 2nd touchdown of the first quarter for the bills.
The Chiefs came roaring back with a 33 yard diving catch seemingly bringing the chiefs into the game, as Leonard Pope had difficulty bringing the pass in from Matt Cassel. With the new ruling on every touchdown this season being reviewed, the touchdown was overturned as Pope did not maintain possession of the football.
With less than 5 minutes to go in the third quarter, Fred Jackson ran to the left side for a 22 yard scamper to set up Fitzpatrick for another pass to Chandler going 10 yards for the 3rd touchdown of the day for the Bills. At this point, the game was 27-7 and out of reach for the Chiefs as fans started to head out of the stadium heading into the fourth quarter.
With a final score of 41-7, this was the worst loss in 35 years since they lost to the Pittsburgh Steelers. It was also the worst home opening loss in Chiefs history.
Jammal Charles, their star running back was held in check with only 56 yards with a long of 22 yards, even though Charles got in the end zone from a Cassel pass for 6 yards late in the 2nd quarter.
Todd Haley took full responsibility for the loss as their apparent lack of preparation showed as he stated that the Bills were ready and the Chiefs were not. Their coach still believes they can do special things, which is a good sign for the future and the state of health for the future of this franchise.
The Chiefs were the leading rushing team in 2010, and they did not show that today. If more positive runs could have been manufactured, the Chiefs would have been more likely to stay within their game plan and impose their will on the Bills defense. With that failure by the offensive line to open holes today for Charles, the chiefs need to improve on that facet of the game. Drayton Florence had an interception in a cover 2 defensive play that put the nail in the coffin for the Bills. Cassel will have to protect the football better as well, to help keep the turnovers down in future games for the younger Chiefs, who need that help and leadership for tough times as these, as he sets the example for young players.
The Chiefs had a few turnovers which were insurmountable for them. They will have to get better in all three phases of the game. Getting back to basics and fundamentals of practice, getting healthy, and more focused after a game of live film and reviewing the way they played and how they can improve for this season will be very important.
