The two teams traded field goals in the third quarter, but one constant problem continued to plague Kansas City as it tried to chip away at Seattle’s advantage: third-down defense. The Seahawks went 11 of 16 on third downs throughout Sunday’s game, five of which came on 3rd-and-9 or longer.
That inability to get off the field allowed Seattle to buy considerable time — nearly 36 minutes for the game — and minimize the Chiefs’ total possessions, as Kansas City — including the series of two snaps after Williams’ pick — recorded just eight drives all night.
Yet despite these collective struggles, the Chiefs still had a chance to get back within seven points when – midway through the fourth quarter – quarterback Patrick Mahomes led an 11-play, 60-yard drive to the Seahawks’ 27-yard line, but the drive finally stalled, Butker’s 45-yard field goal attempt sailed wide right, and the result was essentially sealed.
“I think the biggest thing to remember is if you’re not ready to play, you’re going to get your tail kicked in this league,” Mahomes said. “We have a young team. It will be about how we respond to that, obviously with a big game coming up next week. So let’s get started and get ready for that.”
In terms of injuries, linebacker Nick Bolton (neck spasms) briefly left Sunday’s game before returning.
Kansas City will now look to turn the page and get back on track this weekend with a divisional showdown against the Denver Broncos.
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