Colts vs. Chiefs: Key matchups

The divisional round will be tougher than what Kansas City thinks it will. They are playing a red-hot Colts team that just embarrassed the Texans. The game will come down to a few matchups.

The Colts are playing the best football of anyone left in the playoffs. That great play will be tested on Saturday against the number one seeded Chiefs. Both teams have great offenses, so it should be a high scoring game. Here are some matchups to keep your eye on in this one.

Colts D-line vs Patrick Mahomes

If the Colts are going to pull the upset, they have to get pressure on Patrick Mahomes. He is the presumed MVP of the league and has carved up defenses all year long. But all young quarterbacks get flustered under pressure. The Colts have to pressure him and get in his face to have a chance.

Colts O-line vs. Chiefs front seven

Kansas City does a great job of rushing the passer. They were tied for the most sacks in the league. That is because of the play of Justin Houston, Dee Ford, and Chris Jones. The offensive line has to keep up their great play and keep Andrew Luck protected.

Marlon Mack vs. Chiefs D-line

The Chiefs do not have a good run defense. The Colts can exploit that. Mack had the best rushing performance of any Colt ever in the playoffs against Houston, rushing for 148 yards. He’ll need a repeat performance to keep the clock moving and keep Mahomes off the field.

Andy Reid vs. Past failures

Coach Reid already gave up a big lead to Luck and the Colts, losing a 28 point lead in 2013. The Chiefs have had issues in the playoffs in the past, and they lost last year at home too. This will be in the back of every Chiefs fan’s mind during the game.

These matchups will be something to watch the entire game. Whoever can win them will move on to the AFC Championship game.