Mitch Holthus

What I take into the bye week and beyond....

noreply@blogger.com (Chiefs Radio) — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 15:02:00 +0000

The San Diego game threw me for a loop going into the bye week. Now, I try to sort through tweets, talk and tape.

Here is what I hang my hat on going into the bye week:

1. Mike Vrabel is a stud! I hope he has two more years in him after this year. He is a pro's pro and one of the best players/people that I've been around in 16 years.

2. Matt Cassel can do it. He's shown me enough that he can be a franchise quarterback that can lead this team to post-season wins not just 9-7 or 8-8 records. The San Diego game notwithstanding, he is tough enough, smart enough and good enough. He needs some serious help on the offensive line and with playmakers around him.

3. Brandon Flowers is a brick to build with. Cover cornerbacks who are also physical enough to play the run are VERY HARD to find in the NFL. He might be the best player on the team.

4. Ryan Succop (the San Diego game notwithstanding), has shown he can be a 10 year kicker for this franchise. The Chiefs have been a kickers "Ellis Island" since Morten Anderson left, now with Succop, they might be able to close the refugee camp.

5. I think Scott Pioli will do this. He's focused, and he works constantly in trying to fix this franchise RIGHT. He has been handed a tough task and I think he, like Cassel is tough enough and smart enough to lead this franchise and its fans to where they want to go.

There....I'll take these guys into the bye week and the days ahead and I will work for the day where this franchise is back on the radar again.

WHAT KEEPS ME GOING!

noreply@blogger.com (Chiefs Radio) — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 14:31:00 +0000

Sorry, I haven't blogged...I have been tweeting and if you would have followed me the past 6 months you would know why its been a challenge to blog. However, I'm back blogging and trying not to feel like Charlie Brown ready to kick the football while Lucy holds..AUGGGGHHH.
I look forward to the day when the Chiefs turn this franchise around and we try to really build a championship team. Everyone knows we have won only 2 wins in the last 30 regular season games and a lot of people are working to fix this team and fix it RIGHT.
What keeps me going? Two things keep me inspired and motivated to keep moving forward. One is the great number of fans who show up EVERY MONDAY NIGHT at the Chiefs Kingdom show. They show up with a great spirit and are fans who truly love the Chiefs. I can't tell you how many times I go dragging into a Kingdom show depressed and tired and the "Geeks" perk me up. They include:
*Snow Storm Sandy
*Poof Head Geek
*Arrowman and Arrowwoman
*X Factor (he's a little wierd but has spirit)
*Wierd Wolf, Wierd Wife and Wierd Cub
*Autograph Geek and SlingBlade Geek
*Artist and Kingdom Cruisers
*Lake Lottawanna Lake Rats (we lost the Queen Rat two weeks ago)
*Yellow Fro Man
*Suzie Bling Bling and the Taj Mahal tailgaters including Kent the Cakemaker and the Savage.
*The Ipswich Angel and the Purple Panther
*Chiefs Vader
*First Down Elvis
*Homecoming Queen Brenda
The second thing that keeps me going is the face, heart and soul of Norma Hunt. I saw her at the Alumni Dinner Saturday night and she is an angel on Earth. It was an emotional evening as we honored the 50th anniversary of the franchise and the 40th anniversary of the Super Bowl 4 Champion team. It was as if Lamar was back and sitting with her one more time. Her face motivated me to move on and do what it takes to build a winner and build a champion. I wish everyone who works with and for the Chiefs could have seen what I saw in her face. It was an enduring image that I will take into this week, this month and in the days ahead. She is a lady of grace and class. I see now why armies of history fought so hard for queens, I have that same feeling today....and it keeps me going.

Dear Santa:

noreply@blogger.com (Chiefs Radio) — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 23:10:00 +0000

Dear Santa:

How are you doing? Wow, it has been a tough 2008 for a LOT OF REASONS. I hope you are doing ok. Was that really you in the Fred Claus movie? We got to watch it twice on the way to the Oakland game on the Chiefs charter. Santa, we won that game. Here is my list for this year:

* A winning infrastructure for the Chiefs to build a consistent winning playoff team like the Steelers, Patriots and Colts.

* A wicked pass rushing free agent defensive end..e.g. Julius Peppers, Karlos Dansby maybe?

* A wicked pass rushing/field playing outside linebacker to be drafted..(Brandon Spikes of Florida maybe?)

* A good offensive lineman in free agency.

* A good offensive lineman in the draft.

* A franchise type quarterback that can play for the Chiefs for a long time and win a Super Bowl.

* The restoration of Arrowhead pride for our franchise and fans.

* A playoff win...I know, I know, I've asked for the same thing for 15 years

* A Red Daisy BB gun

Thank you Santa for letting me be the "Voice" of the Chiefs. It's been tough, but I'm hoping for better days ahead.
I hope global warming doesnt melt your cul-de-sac. I'll see you next year at Arrowhead Stadium for a game, you can bring Vince Vaughn if you want.

Yours in winning,

Mitch Holthus Voice of the Chiefs

NO PRESSURE....NOW WHAT TO DO????

noreply@blogger.com (Chiefs Radio) — Mon, 08 Dec 2008 20:41:00 +0000

It is the most documented statistic of the 2008 season that the Chiefs are going to break a 27 year old NFL record for fewest sacks in a single season. The Chiefs have only six sacks through 13 games. Herm Edwards is FRUSTRATED in not being able to pressure the quarterback with his defense. Denver had 40 pass attempts against the Chiefs Sunday and the official stats listed NO quarterback hits by the Chiefs against Jay Cutler.
I usually think sacks are one of the most overrated statistics in the NFL. However, the fact that the Chiefs have only six sacks cannot be overlooked. A closer review of related numbers accentuate the problem that the Chiefs are having in not getting to the quarterback. When Chiefs opponents have faced 3rd and long in 2008 (3rd and long defined as 7 yards or more to go to the line of gain), they have converted for a first down 38.7 PER CENT OF THE TIME. It's an alarming number, when you consider the NFL average is 26.1 per cent and the San Diego Chargers have only allowed first downs 16.7 per cent of the time without Shawn Merriman in the lineup.
Where do the Chiefs go from here? They have to get out the credit card and shop for an impact free agent who can rush the passer. There could be some available this off-season. The list includes:

*Julius Peppers, Carolina
*Terrell Suggs, Baltimore
*Chris Canty, Dallas
*Karlos Dansby, Arizona
*Bertrand Berry, Arizona

There is also a temptation to pursue a combo linebacker/pass rusher in the draft. If a wonderkid quarterback like Oklahoma's Sam Bradford isn't available when the Chiefs pick, then more investment may be made in the defensive front. Florida's Brandon Spikes looks tasty to me or possibly Brian Orakpo of Texas could provide off edge help.
The Chiefs feel like they can jump back into contention in the AFC West next year, but to do so they need to jump on enemy quarterbacks.

EXCHANGING OF NAMES

noreply@blogger.com (Chiefs Radio) — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 16:23:00 +0000

Our family like most families in the Chiefs Kingdom draw names of other family members for holiday gift giving. The recent win by the Chiefs over the Raiders made me think of those name exchanges and possible gifts given in the game.

1. Sebastain Janikowski must have had Maurice Leggett's name, Seabass' field goal flub was a very nice gift to the surprising Chiefs rookie defensive back. Leggett looked very good with the ball running for a 67 yard Chiefs touchdown producing a 10 point swing in the game.

2. Rudy Niswanger must have had Bob Bicknell and Joe D'Alessandris's name, Dr. Rudy's courageous return after an ankle AND knee injury possibly saved the day. Bick and Joe D are the Chiefs offensive line coaches and they were scrambling to fill out the line after Dr. Rudy's injury. Wade Smith was a substitute right guard and had to move to center after Niswanger's injury. Moreover, the Chiefs had to use backup tackle Herbie "the love bug" Taylor at RIGHT GUARD, a position that Taylor had never played. I can't imagine the Chiefs being able to win with the makeshift line. Dr. Rudy fought his way back into the game and fought his way through the game. Take a bow, Dr. Rudy!

3. Tony Gonzalez must have had Tyler Thigpen's name. Tony G. put on a clinic in the Raider game. Gonzo's catches of 23 yards, 16 yards (on 3rd and 10) and 12 yards (on 3rd and 9) were the critical plays of the 16 play-91 yard drive that led to a 17-10 Chiefs lead. The BEST THING THAT DIDNT HAPPEN TO THE CHIEFS was that Tony Gonzalez was NOT traded in October. His presence has been essential to Tyler Thigpen's progress.

4. Tyler Thigpen must have had the Chiefs fans names. Thigpen is the youngest quarterback to win a Chiefs game in a quarter century. Yes, Thigpen made some mistakes in the Raider game, but his gutsy 3rd and 2 pass to Dwayne Bowe late in the Raider win was huge. Chiefs fans now have a young quarterback who has a chance to become a winning quarterback in the NFL. The former seventh round pick of the Minnesota Vikings has a chance to be a very good quarterback. He has the arm strength and the mobility to be a weapon. Mostly, he has the attitude and work ethic that winning NFL quarterbacks have. This could be a Drew Brees type qb that can run. Does anyone else see a potential Rich Gannon here? Is anyone else besides me glad that Gonzalez didn't get traded?

Dont forget to do your holiday shopping before the last minute rush and does anyone remember whose name I have for gift exchange?

THANKFUL!

noreply@blogger.com (Chiefs Radio) — Mon, 24 Nov 2008 04:02:00 +0000

The 54-31 loss to the Bills was not the way to start Thanksgiving week. It was the most points allowed by the Chiefs in a single game....EVER! It was like being forced to eat bad cranberry sauce and the neck of the turkey. The five turnovers committed by the Chiefs and the 20 points the Bills scored off them was enough to cause indigestion.
Our Executive Producer of the Chiefs Radio Network, Dan Israel asked me some time ago to reflect on some of my most memorable moments as the Voice of the Chiefs. It caused me to look back at the past fifteen years and scan the "hard drive" of my mind and heart. It also made me a little sad. There were no playoff wins to celebrate, no trips deep into the post-season. Sure, there are individual plays; Joe Montana's great drive @ Denver my rookie year, Pete Stoyanovich's 54 yard field goal to beat Denver in 1997, Dante Hall's 93 yard punt return to beat Denver in 2003 are at the top of the list. I started to feel sorry for myself for not being the "Voice" of a team that had achieved more playoff success.
However, as I continued to reflect on the past, I became convicted of my selfishness. There are many reasons for me to be thankful to be the "Voice" of the Chiefs. The pre-game on field presentation before the Bills game to commemorate my induction into the Kansas Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame was a lifetime thrill. I get the opportunity to work with incredible people every week. A lot of those people were responsible for the pre-game ceremony. Most of those people are BIG TIME WINNERS AND WILL WIN WITH THIS FRANCHISE IF THEY ARE GIVEN THE CHANCE.
I am thankful to the great fans of this franchise. I bleed with them and for them because they have had to endure the past several years. I love the fans of the Chiefs and will continue to work my rear end off to enhance their experience. I trust and hope that there will be better days ahead for all of us who love the Chiefs.
I am thankful that this story is just starting a new chapter. A chapter with blank pages that will be filled in with many good memories, maybe even memories of post-season wins. There is a verse of scripture that says "Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen" My faith in this franchise is that the future is bright. My hope is that my most memorable moments are yet to come.
Thanks for letting me be the "Voice of the Chiefs" and have a great holiday season.

NO HALFTIME THIS WEEK

noreply@blogger.com (Chiefs Radio) — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 15:54:00 +0000

Okay, I've confirmed it with the NFL. There will be no halftime this week for the Chiefs/Bills game. The Bills will be confused anyway thinking they are in Canada instead of on the Missouri/Kansas border. Why no halftime? The reason is that as promising as the Chiefs have been the past month, there is a huge barrier in the way of success....THE THIRD QUARTER!
Something at halftime seems to slow this team down. Consider this, in the past four games look at the difference between the first and second halves:
FIRST HALF SCORING: KC 61 Opponents 46.
SECOND HALF SCORING: Opponents 62 KC 29.
THIRD QUARTER SCORING: Opponents 28 KC 6.

When I took a closer look at the third quarters of the last four games, the lack of production and possibly focus was reflected in the following offensive issues:
5- 3 and outs
7 punts
2 field goals
Tyler Thigpen has played good football the past four games at quarterback, but he too has played his worst coming out of the halftime locker room. The New Orleans game was a prime example. His QB rating at halftime was stellar, but he misfired on his first two throws of the second half and the Chiefs were a quick three and out. A banged up Dustin Colquitt could only muster a 32 yard punt and the Saints had excellent field position. Two plays later the Saints had torched the "patch work" secondary of the Chiefs for a 47 yard touchdown and a two possession lead ONE MINUTE AND SEVEN SECONDS INTO THE THIRD QUARTER....and the Chiefs had the first possession of the quarter.
This week, we will skip halftime, and just keep playing. It might be the best solution to the most dangerous time for the Chiefs....just AFTER halftime.

THEY DIDNT HAVE ANY???

noreply@blogger.com (Chiefs Radio) — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 16:15:00 +0000

Okay, I went to SportsNutz at the Legends shopping area near the Kansas Speedway looking for Chiefs jerseys. I was asking the gal at the register for some help. I asked if she had any Wallace Gilberry jerseys. Wallace Gilberry is the new Chiefs defensive end who the Chiefs just signed last week so they would have enough guys to have a defense. She said "no, we dont have any jerseys with that name, but we have a sale on Ty Law jerseys, and by the way, Wallace Gilberry is a cereal".
I was frustrated. I then asked in succession if she had any jerseys with the names of other Chiefs signed just last week. I asked if she had any Ricardo Colcough, David Macklin or Oliver Celesine jerseys in the back room. She left and came back only with an old Elvis Grbac jersey. I told here that wouldn't do and that I was already stuck with a Kyle Turley jersey from last year and a Glenn Cadrez jersey from 2002. I pleaded with her to at least find me a Weston Daycus or Rocky Boiman jersey. The SportsNutz employee was also out of patience and replied "those guys don't even play for the Chiefs". I argued with her and told her that were indeed part of the Chiefs team and that if she couldn't find me a Tyrone Leggette, Kevin Robinson or Erik Walden jersey that I was going to leave. She threw an Eddie Drummond jersey in my face from the sale rack and I walked away.
This Sunday, the Chiefs will try to beat the Saints. Oh yeah, I'll see Reggie Bush and Drew Brees jerseys in the stands, but I won't see any Wallace Gilberry jerseys because SportzNutz doesnt have any. Hey, if anyone knows where I can land a Thomas Gafford Chiefs jersey, let me know, that would be "wicked".

IT WAS THERE...I WAS READY AND......AGGGHHH

noreply@blogger.com (Chiefs Radio) — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 14:52:00 +0000

A play-by-play announcer always waits for "that" moment. The moment in a sporting event that makes history and is enhanced for posterity by the right play-by-play call. Some examples include: Joe Montana's game winning Monday Night Football drive in 1994, President Pete Stoyanovich's 54 yard field goal to beat Denver in 1997 and Tony Gonzalez's myriad of record setting performances. It was there again Sunday versus the Jets and........

Tyler Thigpen's performance was remarkable against the Jets. It was the best Chiefs quarterback rating ON THE ROAD since Damon Huard's 138.3 rating against St. Louis on November 5, 2006. Thigpen's rating of 110.9 was a reflection of a 60 MINUTE display of decision making, accurate throwing and command on the field. He used seven different receivers and involved Brad Cottam and Mark Bradley. Tyler Thigpen acted and played like an NFL quarterback.

I started the broadcast with a "battle of the 4's" and gave statistical reasons why the game was a mismatch in favor of Favre. Yet, at the end of the game, it appeared as if the Chiefs and Thigpen would be one of the great stories of the 2008 NFL year to date. I was ready...."the quarterback with the most wins in the history of professional football Brett Farve has just lost the 'battle of 4's' to Tyler Thigpen....who has just won his FIRST NFL....AUGGGGGHHHHHHHHHHHHH.....I feel like Charlie Brown missing the football as Lucy pulls it away....it was there....IT WAS THERE...!!!

The Bucs come calling this week and we will see if Thigpen can do it again. This week, its Jeff Garcia....lets hope theres a "moment"....but of course it wont be the "MOMENT" that slipped away last week.

HERM AND QUARTERBACKS.

noreply@blogger.com (Chiefs Radio) — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 01:47:00 +0000

It was early August in River Falls, Wisconsin. I remember exactly where I was standing on a beautiful early morning on the Wisconsin-River Falls campus when I heard that the Jets had released quarterback Chad Pennington. I have always been impressed with Pennington ever since he made his NFL debut against the Chiefs in 2002. I was thinking that Herm Edwards might make a plea to Carl Peterson to sign Pennington and make him the starter for the Chiefs in 2008 while the search would continue for a young quarterback to lead the franchise. Brodie Croyle was a strong candidate to be that "young quarterback". However, Croyle was 0 and 7 as a starter and had a propensity to be injured. The rest is recent history. Croyle is out for the season placing his NFL future in serious doubt.
What is it with Herm and quarterbacks? This week the Chiefs go to Gotham to play the New York Jets-Herm's old team. In Herm's five years in New York, if he had healthy quarterbacks, he won games. Herm had 3 playoff years in New York with two playoff wins. In his two non-playoff seasons with the Jets, he played 6 different quarterbacks due to injury.
With the Chiefs, its been a nightmare. 2006: TRENT GREEN GETS HURT IN THE FIRST GAME.
2007: DAMON HUARD GETS HURT IN THE FIRST GAME, fifth game, 9th game and 12th game. Brodie Croyle gets hurt in the 11th game and the 15th game. 2008: BRODIE CROYLE GETS HURT IN THE FIRST GAME and the sixth game. Damon Huard gets hurt in the second game,while Jets quarterback Brett Favre has played in every game SINCE 1992.
It is apparent that the Chiefs need to buy a quarterback and draft a quarterback in 2009 while still searching to find that "young" quarterback to lead the franchise.

BYE WEEK BLOGGING...I THOUGHT WE WERE PAST THIS

noreply@blogger.com (Chiefs Radio) — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 13:20:00 +0000

Chiefs Head Coach Herm Edwards response after the Carolina loss was direct and showed his frustration. His response..."I thought we were past this"...was the same thought I had after calling the 34-0 loss to the Panthers. As a result, Edwards makes this bye week a working week for the Chiefs not unlike a training camp type week. There is a lot to fix, some obvious areas and some matters not so obvious.
1). The quarterback situation is obviously hindering this team after five weeks. The hit Brodie Croyle took in the Patriots game was nasty. Now, Croyle will be back for the bye work week and for the Tennessee Titans. Brodie gets 11 weeks to prove that he can stay healthy and become a winning starting quarterback in the NFL. What is not so obvious is that the wicked hit that Damon Huard took early in the Oakland game did more physical and psychological damage that originally thought. Huard battles, but he has not been the Huard of 2006. Tyler Thigpen is learning that "on the job" training is nearly impossible for young quarterbacks in the NFL DURING THE REGULAR SEASON. Thigpen has tools, he just needs to refine them in the months ahead.

2). THIRD DOWN DEFENSE is puzzling. The numbers are astounding. I went through the first five games on tape and looked at "3rd and long" situations (3rd and 5 or more) in the first five games. Chiefs opponents CONVERTED for first downs or touchdowns on 21 such situations. Sixteen times the opponents converted for first downs or touchdowns on situations of 13 yards or more. The tape reveals all sorts of situations. I saw the Chiefs play various zones, blitzes, man to man, 3 man fronts, 4 man fronts, etc.
Moreover, the enemy has had RUNS of 32, 44, 50, 22, 32 and 18 yards in 3rd and long situations. There are numerous items to fix here but Herm Edwards has mentioned that the "third down" psychology will be the start. Gunther Cunningham's defense will stop a team on first and second down only to see the opponent not only convert but hit a big play on 3rd and long. That can be devastating to a defense.
The Chiefs are LAST in the NFL on 3rd and 10plus defense. Their opponents have converted FORTY SIX per cent of the time in such situations, the NFL defensive average is 19 per cent.

3). OFFENSIVE RHYTHM will be a priority during the bye week. This is directly related to the first point. Yet, there needs to be overall improvement throughout the offense. THIS OFFENSE NEEDS TO STAY ON THE FIELD AND HOLD THREE AND OUTS TO A MINIMUM. The Chiefs have slipped to next to last in the NFL by going "3 and out" 34 per cent of the time. The right side of the offensive line must improve in the next 11 games, Larry Johnson has to be better at the "zone" runs and the receivers must get better separation EARLY in the routes.

I hope you enjoy your bye week. The Kansas City Chiefs will spend most of the week working to get ready for the Tennessee Titans and the next eleven weeks of the season. There is a lot of work to do.

SEEN AND UNSEEN HEROES

noreply@blogger.com (Chiefs Radio) — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 13:33:00 +0000

The win over the Broncos was the result of heroic plays by many of the Kansas City Chiefs. Most were obvious; Larry Johnson running for 198 yards (4th best rushing day in Chiefs history), Tony Gonzalez' Hall of Fame catch, Derrick Johnson's dominating defensive performance and Damon Huard not throwing interceptions. However, EVERY winning team in the NFL has the "unseen" heroes. Those players who contribute in more subtle ways. Like the following:

BRAD COTTAM: The Chiefs have used two tight end formations lately and the massive rookie from Tennessee has shown he can block. The resurgance in the running game is helped by his presence.

MIKE COX: Okay, he might not be a pit bull, but he's a bulldog. His blocks have been key in allowing Larry Johnson to get big runs and little runs to move the chains.

JAMAAL CHARLES: His third down pass blocking prevented three sacks in the Denver game. Most fans see his world class speed, yet it is easy to overlook the little things he does well that saves negative plays.

BRANDON CARR: He held Brandon Marshall to 77 yards. Carr was playing Division II NCAA football last year against Northern Michigan, last Sunday he contained Marshall from going "crazy" like Marshall had done the two weeks prior.

TURK MCBRIDE: Turk continued his ascending play at defensive end. His "chase down" of Eddie Royal and forced fumble of Royal after Royal had a 20 yard gain showed Turk's intensity and speed. It was a huge early play in the Denver win.

GLENN DORSEY: Dorsey had his best game yet against the Broncos. Indeed, he registered tackles on the defensive chart, but his control of the line of scrimmage ESPECIALLY THE CUT BACK LANES was most impressive. Denver had pulverized the Chiefs in recent years with cut back runs. Dorsey protected against that in the Bronco win.

DAMION MCINTOSH, ADRIAN JONES AND HERB "THE LOVE BUG" TAYLOR: The often criticized McIntosh and Jones had their best games. D Mac's block was huge to allow LJ's 65 yard run. Jones was consistent and nearly knocked Denver safety Marlon McCree out with a crushing pulling block. Taylor did more than held his own filling in for the injured Brandon Albert. The experience that Taylor received during the pre-season paid off vs. the Broncos.

SIGNS OF LIFE....AND THEN

noreply@blogger.com (Chiefs Radio) — Mon, 22 Sep 2008 15:05:00 +0000

There were signs of life from the Kansas City Chiefs in the game against Atlanta. It is now a matter of the team being more consistent and putting those signs together at the same time.

DEFENSIVE LIFE SIGNS: There were young defenders who were all over the stat sheet. The leading tackler was CORNERBACK Brandon Carr with 9 tackles. Carr did a good job of protecting his outside areas on certain runs. He blew his assignment on the 19 yard touchdown run by Darren McFadden of Oakland the week before. Carr showed progress in the Atlanta game. In addition, Tank Tyler and Turk McBride continue to ascend. Turk had six tackles, including two for losses, and made a huge play to prevent an Atlanta reverse. Tank had 5 tackles along with Glenn Dorsey who had 5 tackles. It is a good sign when your first line of defense is making that many tackles. The defense crushed Atlanta in the first three series of the game and allowed only 8 total yards on 3 possessions.

AND THEN....: The big play is killing this defense. In three weeks, the defense has allowed a 51 yard pass on 3rd and long vs. New England, runs of 50 and 32 yards vs. Oakland and plays of 44,38,30 and 70 yards vs. Atlanta. The defense did a great job early when the offense wasn't producing, but when the offense started to click, the defense couldn't stop the Falcons. The Falcons advanced the ball 48 times in the game and only 7 tackles were made by the Chiefs starting linebackers.

OFFENSIVE LIFE SIGNS: For the first time this season, the Chiefs started to run the ball with some measure of success. They averaged 5.6 yards a rush, usually a winning number. It was fueled by
121 yards from Larry Johnson, including 48 yard run. Jamaal Charles also took a step forward advancing the ball 10 times for 62 yards. Tyler Thigpen showed improvement at the end of the half on a nice slant to Dwayne Bowe for a touchdown. In the second half, his best throw came on a 4th and 2 situation where he hit Bowe for a 13 yard out. Thigpen was the quarterback for back to back touchdown drives and nearly led drives for two more scores, but Nick Novak missed a 32 yard field goal and the Chiefs couldn't convert a 4th and goal play late in the game. There were times when the offensive line showed some spark, especially on the first drive of the third quarter.

AND THEN....: Just when you thought Thigpen was gaining some much needed confidence for next week's game against Denver, he threw a pick six at the end of the game. He is young, but his mobility gives the offense a chance this week against the Broncos. Also, the kickoff coverage unit has to be better. The Chiefs had actually turned the momentum around with back to back touchdown drives, but then Atlanta returned a kickoff for 36 yards. Also, the 32 yard missed field goal is inexcusable.

WHERE FROM HERE?...BACK TO BASICS...

noreply@blogger.com (Chiefs Radio) — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 13:10:00 +0000

I was mystified by the 23-8 loss to the Raiders. I didn't think I would ever see a Chiefs defense give up 300 rushing yards to the Raiders or any other team. This week, Gunther Cunningham, Tim Krumrie and David Gibbs will go back to the basics of stopping the run. When a team gouges your team with the running game like the Raiders did to the Chiefs, all phases of the run defense need to be examined. Is it the defensive front? Is it the linebackers? Is it aligning properly? The answer is yes on all accounts when you allow 300 rushing yards in the NFL. This weeks opponent, Atlanta is a young team like the Chiefs but one thing the Falcons established in week one was a running game with former Charger Michael "the Burner" Turner.
Offensively, Chan Gailey is tugging at his hair trying to figure out what to do. He has a proven track record of creating offensive situations to fit his personnel. It's why he uses Larry Johnson in certain situations, Jamaal Charles in certain situations and why he used Marques Hagens as a "slash" in the Oakland game. He HAS A PROVEN TRACK RECORD of being a game planner and play caller, so I know he will try to create a situation to be successful. However, no matter the "sub group" that is in the game, the Chiefs still need to block effectively in the running game. The blocking responsibility extends beyond the offensive line and includes the wide receivers and tight ends.
Finally, this is the sixth time in the past nine seasons that the Chiefs have started 0-2. What is more alarming is that 6 of the 12 losses have been at Arrowhead. In the 1990's, the Chiefs always won in September at Arrowhead. The Chiefs won 18 of 20 September home games in the decade of the 1990's. The record for September home games in the 2000's is 6 wins and 8 losses.
This week the young Chiefs head to Atlanta to meet the equally young Falcons. Yet, before going to Atlanta, the team will go back to the basics.

NOW WHAT?....ITS RAIIIDDDDERRRRS WEEK!

noreply@blogger.com (Chiefs Radio) — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 14:41:00 +0000

The Chiefs played the mighty Patriots off their feet but still lost the game and both teams lost their quarterbacks. The uncertainty with Brodie Croyle's injury now has lead to speculation about long term decisions at the position. Be that as it may, the Chiefs will have to find another quarterback if Brodie is out for any length of time. The team only carried three quarterbacks throughout all pre-season (usually one short, the norm is four) and need to find at least a third quarterback since the Croyle injury only leaves the team with two signal callers.
However, if you are a die-hard Chiefs fan there were some very encouraging signs in the Pats game. First of all, twelve rookies played in the game and six rookies started. All of the Chiefs rookies who played in the game accounted for themselves very well, perhaps none better than LOT Brandon Albert who fought like a veteran against Patriot star Richard Seymour. The rookies showed courage, skill and poise in a difficult situation. It was a situation where the rookies could "let it fly" and there were little external expectations. The Chiefs were supposed to get drilled by the Patriots anyway.
That changes BIG TIME this week. This week is a HUGE challenge for the rookies and bigger than last week. Why? The NFL is physical pressure, MENTAL pressure and PSYCHOLOGICAL pressure. This is Raaaaiddrrrrrs Week baby. The Chiefs need to win this game and restore Arrowhead magic. Last year, KC was a woeful 2-6 at home, the worst home record since the 80's, and that trend must change this year. There will be tension around the new Arrowhead practice facilities this week. The coaches will feel it, the veterans will feel it and the rookies will feel it for the first time. The feeling will be different than last week. This week is about handling the external "expectation" to win. Many, many NFL players who had great talent melted under the pressure of external expectations. It will be interesting to see how this vaunted rookie class handles the pressure to win at home against a bitter rival. Last week, the Chiefs were expected to get blown out, this week they are expected to take care of business. A different dynamic than last week, but a dynamic that must be mastered if long term success in the NFL is desired.

ITS ON!!!.....DID YOU KNOW?.....

noreply@blogger.com (Chiefs Radio) — Mon, 01 Sep 2008 21:14:00 +0000

Let the 2008 season finally begin...it's on now! Here are some "Did You Know" facts to get the Chiefs season started in earnest:

Did you know?...That the Patriots are 45-11 at home in the past seven years, BUT six of those 11 losses have come at the hands of only three coaches. (Meaning: three coaches have won twice at Foxboro in the past seven years) Those three: Mike Shanahan of the Denver Broncos, Tony Dungy of the Indianapolis Colts and Herm Edwards when he coached the New York Jets. Herm Edwards was the last coach to hand New England a defeat in its home opener (2001).

Did you know?...The 2008 calendar is the exact calendar of the following years: 1969, 1986, 1997 and 2003. 1969 was the year the Chiefs won their only Super Bowl title. 1986 was the "miracle" playoff season featuring the great Chiefs special teams of Frank Gansz.(It was the only playoff appearance in a 15 year period. 1997 was a 13-3 finish for the Chiefs and a division title. (Who knows what would have happened if Rich Gannon would have started in the playoff loss to the Broncos?). 2003 was Dick Vermeil's only playoff team, it too finished 13-3.

Did you know?...The Chiefs have 15 rookies on their 53 man roster. 10 of the rookies are draft picks, 5 are rookie free agents. Four of the rookies will start this Sunday vs. New England (if Brandon Albert is healthy). 9 of the 53 man roster are second year players and 3 of them will start Sunday. 8 are third year players and 5 of them will start. Conversely, 13 of the 53 man squad are sixth to 13th year players and only 5 of them will start. (The Chiefs have gone from the oldest team in the NFL to one of the youngest in 18 short months). Only 21 players on the Chiefs 53 man roster have more than four years experience.

That should be some "coffee talk" starters for this first NFL week. Let the season begin!

Did you know?...

WHAT WE KNOW...WHAT WE DON'T KNOW

noreply@blogger.com (Chiefs Radio) — Sun, 24 Aug 2008 23:28:00 +0000

The Miami pre-season 24-0 loss hurt like a regular season loss. The Chicago 24-20 pre-season win felt like a regular season win. The Arizona pre-season 27-17 loss felt like a pre-season game. When I finally arrived home at 3:30am Sunday morning, I realized that none of them really counted and yet, I was hoping the team would play better Thursday night in the Governor's Cup game against the Rams.
I also was thinking on the early morning drive home from KCI (is 3AM the night before or is it the next day..it always seems in between to me) what do I really know about the 2008 Chiefs and what don't I know? Here is what I think I know:
1. Chan Gailey's offense, play calling and game planning gives the Chiefs and Brodie Croyle a chance to be competitive. The Miami game notwithstanding, I've seen enough of this scheme to realize that it plays to the strengths of Larry Johnson, Tony Gonzalez and Dwayne Bowe. It also gives the young players a chance to contribute much sooner than last year's offense.
2. Derrick Johnson is good and can be great if he can be consistent this year. The Chiefs biggest defensive plays in the pre-season games and practices have usually been provided by DJ. He needs some help in that category.
3. The 2008 rookie class is talented and may even be better than originally thought. Glenn Dorsey is starting to come on at defensive tackle. Brandon Flowers is the best cornerback the Chiefs have had since the Carter/Hasty days. TE Brad Cottam was doing very good things before his injury. RB Jamaal Charles was doing very good things before his injury. WR Will Franklin was doing very good things before his injury. OT Brandon Albert was doing very good things before his injury. Now, they just all need to get healthy and back on the field. S DaJuan Morgan is as impressive as Flowers. RB Dantrell Savage still could be the steal of the class. He looks like one of the better college free agents the Chiefs have had in a while.
However, the regular season starts at New England two weeks from me writing this blog and there is much I/we don't know about this team. That list includes:
1. How this young team will hold up against the rigors of a 17 week grind. Let's hope the famed "rookie wall" is not the Great Wall of China.
2. The entire linebacking corps sans Derrick Johnson (see 2 above) has had its struggles this pre-season. Donnie Edwards and Demorrio Williams injuries, uncertainty at the Mike backer position and lack of progress from back-ups presents Gunther Cunningham one of the greatest challenges of his long NFL coaching career.
3. How will the offensive line progress? The injuries to Brandon Albert and Damion McIntosh have thrown off cohesion and placed young hopefuls Herb Taylor and Barry Richardson into the fight a little prematurely.
The Rams and the Governors Cup loom on the immediate horizon (who has the Governors Cup?) but my gaze is to the east and a daunting trip to meet the Patriots in two weeks.

ITS NOT....HE'S NOT MALT-O-MEAL...

noreply@blogger.com (Chiefs Radio) — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 14:20:00 +0000

There is a shortcut that I take when driving from River Falls, Wisconsin to Kansas City. The shortcut takes me through the beautiful town of Northfield, Minnesota. Northfield is the home of Carleton College and St. Olaf College plus it is where the Jesse James gang met its demise in 1876. It is also home of a plant where the famous breakfast Malt-O-Meal is made. You certainly remember Malt-O-Meal, the delicious hot wheat cereal or instant oatmeal that your Mom used to make before the school bus arrived.
The Chiefs pre-season game versus Arizona reminded me of that Malt-O-Meal plant and it reminded me that the Chiefs are NOT Malt-O-Meal. The 2008 Chiefs are not going to be instant oatmeal or a microwave hot breakfast. There is a lot of young talent on this Chiefs roster, but it is going to take a process of development for that talent to mature. I tell Chiefs fans all the time to be excited but to be patient.
The best example of this thesis is Chiefs CB Brandon Flowers. The feisty second round draft pick from Virginia Tech is the most promising young cornerback the Chiefs have had in years. Yet, it is going to take some time for him to develop. Many Chiefs fans want him to be Bronco stud Champ Bailey right away, but those are unrealistic expectations. The Arizona game proved that Flowers will win his share of one on one battles and lose his share as well. The Cardinals might have the best receiver group in the NFC. Anquan Boldin and Larry Fitzgerald are the only pair of receivers in NFL history that have had 2 Pro Bowl appearances EACH in their first four years. The Cards decided to go after Flowers with both Boldin and Fitzgerald. Flowers saw a variety of pass routes by the Cardinal receivers. Flowers had to defend; fades, shallow crosses, deep crosses, hitches and double moves. Flowers defended most of them well, but was beaten on others.
Gunther Cunningham and Herm Edwards decided during the off-season to add a variety of defensive coverages. The Chiefs will use zone defenses, man-to-man defenses and a combination of both. However, to employ such strategies requires cornerbacks who have man-to-man coverage skills. Flowers has the ability to play man, zone and combos. Yet, it will take some time for Brandon Flowers to refine his skills to perform at a high level all the time, especially when he is up against the caliber of receivers that the Arizona Cardinals have.
Brandon Flowers is not Malt-O-Meal...the 2008 Chiefs are not Malt-O-Meal...they are a work in progress. My motto for this team continues to be "be excited, but be patient".

THEY ONLY COUNT WHEN YOU LOSE THEM ALL.....BUT......

noreply@blogger.com (Chiefs Radio) — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 14:53:00 +0000

I'm a little sleep deprived in River Falls, but excited nonetheless about the pre-season win in Chicago.

I appreciate little things, like beautiful Midwest summer sunsets and cute, little puppies....and pre-season wins that feel like a regular season wins.

Ok....I know, I know, save the responses, it was just a pre-season win, but this win in Chicago was different than most pre-season games. PRE-SEASON GAMES ONLY COUNT WHEN YOU LOSE THEM ALL like last year or in 2000, when Gunther Cunningham lost all 4 pre-season games and some how it was played into a six game losing streak when the Chiefs lost the first two regular season games that year. A similar response occured in 2007 when HBO's Hardknocks portrayed the Chiefs 0-4 pre-season as a minor disaster.

Here is why I am excited after the win over Chicago:

1. CHAN GAILEY: I've said repeatedly that he was the best pick up in the off season by the Chiefs. I now have a man crush on Chan Gailey. He is an experienced game planner and play caller, a novel concept for an Offensive Coordinator. His offense and philosophy gives the Chiefs and Brodie Croyle a chance to be competitive in 2008. The first drive against the Bears is a perfect example of Chan's impact. The Chiefs did things on that first drive that they didn't do all last year (e.g. avoid 3 and outs, convert 3rd and long situations, used 5 different players to convert 5 different third downs). Moreover, it was against a Bears defense that had Pro Bowlers and mega stars Brian Urlacher, Lance Briggs and Tommie Harris on the field. This offense is effective. This offense features bootlegs, short rolls, misdirection, zone option reads on runs, plays that compliment one another, quick counts, "dummy" calls and an audible system.....AN AUDIBLE SYSTEM! All three Chiefs quarterbacks who played against Chicago led touchdown drives and all three used "check with me" calls repeatedly. Thank you Georgia Tech for firing Chan Gailey (what were they thinking), and thank you Herm Edwards for hiring the 'ol Georgia boy for leading this offense. Now KC actually has the chance to use the plays that Denver has killed them with for years against THEM and the others on this schedule.

2. TEAM UNITY: Our new sideline reporter Kendall Gammon brought up a great point near the end of the game against Chicago. He pointed out that the ENTIRE roster was up on "their toes" near the sideline to urge their teammates to win the game. There weren't many Chiefs on the field at the time who will make the final 53 man roster. Yet, young guys and veterans alike were "into" it on the sideline. The Chiefs WANTED TO WIN THIS GAME. Herm Edwards has done a great job in this camp to build team unity. There is a mutual respect between offense and defense and there is a central purpose to build this team into a winning playoff team. The ENTIRE coaching staff is as unified as I have seen in my fifteen years as the "Voice". It is exciting to see how Gunther Cunningham's defense can compliment Chan's offense and vice versa without worrying who is trying to pad their resume with stats, etc.

3. RADIO NETWORK UNITY: Dan Isreal is the Chiefs Radio Network's version of Chan Gailey. He is brilliant! The unity that exists on the Chiefs football team now exists throughout the entire Chiefs Radio Network team. It is amazing when a large group of people from varied backgrounds and with varied talents can respect one another and move with a single purpose. The Chiefs Radio Network is a complicated mix of technology, logistics and personalities. It requires leadership and mutual respect to really be successful. Donna Baker, the market manager of the Cumulus Radio Group of Kansas City, who owns the Chiefs Radio Network has initated the leadership necessary to create an environment for success. I encourage you to listen closely sometime to the end of our broadcasts when I read the names of all the people who make the broadcast possible. You may hear names, but I am really reading a roster of a "team". A team who had a wonderful start to the season in Chicago and who represents what can happen when true mutual respect can lead to a wonderful result.

I KNOW ITS ONLY THE PRE-SEASON, BUT THERE WERE GREAT THINGS THAT HAPPENED IN CHICAGO. Now, I'll try to sneak in a nap before the final week of camp starts here in River Falls.

WELCOME TO 2008...OR IS IT 1989....OR IS IT 1960....

noreply@blogger.com (Chiefs Radio) — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 17:40:00 +0000

Happy New Year and welcome to 2008. The year that sees the new beginning of the Kansas City Chiefs. The good news is that 2007 is over, and there has been much written and discussed how the Chiefs fell to 4-12. This blog looks to the future, 2008 and beyond.

The Chiefs are starting over. There is excitement to "building" a new team and a new approach. Most experts thought Lamar Hunt was an idiot when he started a new team and a new league in 1960. It took hard work and an investment of time, physical, financial and emotional effort. Yet, it was exciting to prove all the nay-sayers wrong. First, to build an AFL winner in Dallas. Secondly, to be the AFL represenative in Super Bowl I and to win a World Championship in Super Bowl IV.

There was excitement in 1989 when a new approach was brought to the Chiefs. The franchise had been to the playoffs only one time in seventeen years. The Chiefs hadn't won a playoff game since the 1969 Super Bowl victory. Arrowhead became a destination, a destination of victory. There was excitement when the Chiefs won a playoff game over the Raiders. There was even more excitement when the Chiefs beat Pittsburgh and Houston in the playoffs and lost to Buffalo in the AFC Championship game in 1993.

The win over Houston was this franchise's last playoff victory. It has been 14 seasons since that win. There could be a sense of despair in the Chiefs 4-12 season or there could be the same sense of excitement of starting over that was evident in 1960 or 1989 or.....2008.

This team will approach the off-season differently. The team will build through the draft and some prudent free agent purchases. The team wants to build a young, feisty defense that can replicate the defenses of the early 90's and the late 60's. That defensive philosophy needs to carry over to the special teams, which will improve with a better level of athlete throughout the roster.

The offense will be changed right away. It will be an offense that establishes a tough inside physical run game with a passing game that can be explosive outside the "numbers" on the field. It will be an offense that will strive to AVERAGE 24 points a game. It will be an offense that will replicate the Chiefs offenses of the late 60's and early 70's.

It is time to start over. There is some anticipation in doing so....just ask the fans of the Texans in 1960, and the Chiefs fans of 1963 and 1989.

I'LL SEE YOU AT ARROWHEAD! THE 2008 SEASON STARTS NOW!

DEAR SANTA:

noreply@blogger.com (Chiefs Radio) — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 15:41:00 +0000

Dear Santa:

I hope this finds you well. I hope you had a better fall than I've had.
Santa, don't get me wrong, I'm very appreciative for all the blessings that I have in my life. I'm blessed with health, a great family and awesome friends, but it's just been a long time since I've had to endure an eight game losing streak. I'm also grateful for being able to live in this great country and being able to live in the "Heartland of America". I'm also thankful for the opportunity to be the "Voice" of the Chiefs Kingdom. That being stated, here is my Christmas list for this year:

1. A playoff win sometime. I've asked for 14 years, but I'm a patient man.

2. Two, maybe three defensive cornerbacks that can play. I've asked for 8 years, but I'm a patient man.

3. Two, maybe three offensive lineman that can play. I've asked for two years, but I'm a patient man.

4. A REAL GOOD draft in 2008. Santa, are you Mel Kiper? People say you and he only come around once a year. Are you the same person?

5. That Herm Edwards gets the opportunity to "build" the Chiefs. I've seen his plan and it looks like the approach that the other successful AFC teams are using.

6. That Chiefs fans and all members of the Kingdom get to restore their pride in 2008.

Thanks, Santa...I like the fact that you wear red and not Raiders black or Bronco blue, it makes me think that you are a Chiefs fan.

Yours in Chiefs winning,

Mitch Holthus "Voice"

GROUNDHOG DAY

noreply@blogger.com (Chiefs Radio) — Mon, 17 Dec 2007 14:34:00 +0000

One of my wife's favorite movies is Groundhog Day. It's the 1993 movie starring Bill Murray as a Pittsburgh weatherman who is destined to live Groundhog Day over and over in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania. In similar fashion, the Chiefs are living the same scenario over and over during the 2007 season. It's the first Chiefs offensive possession of the second half. It has doomed the Chiefs all year.

Remarkably, the Chiefs have led at halftime in four of the past seven losses. They were tied at halftime in two other games of the current seven game losing streak. In every instance, the first possession of the second half has dictated the demise of the team in ALL seven games of the current streak. It has set the tone for the second halves of all fourteen games this year. The overall season result of those possessions are as follows:

*14 total possessions
*11 punts
*10 "3 and outs"
* 2 game changing/season changing turnovers (@ Houston, Denver)
*37 pass attempts, 21 completions, 160 yards
* 5 sacks
* 4 penalties
*22 running plays, 41 yards (2.0 avg.) (6 negative runs)

Overall, the Chiefs have scored only 3 points all year on their first possession of the second half, only Carolina is worse in the NFL and they have been shut out. Moreover, the Chiefs are losing yardage and field position on these drives, changing the momentum of the game. The passing attempts are perplexing. There have more passing attempts to Kris Wilson than there have been to Tony Gonzalez on these particular drives.

The Chiefs need to win the next two games to take some momentum into 2008. They have a chance to win at Detroit and at New York against the Jets. Let's just hope that there is better production on the first possession of the second half.

PRACTICE SQUAD PRO BOWL AND THE ANGEL OF LIFE

noreply@blogger.com (Chiefs Radio) — Mon, 10 Dec 2007 15:33:00 +0000

It is very apparent that the Chiefs need help at various positions on the roster. However, don't expect the Chiefs to be big "free agent market" shoppers this off season. Herm Edwards wants to build this team through the draft. Plus, there is still "dead cap" money on the books from past free agent mistakes.
Enter Chiefs Director of Pro Personnel Ray-Ray Farmer, portrayed as the "Grip Reaper" on HBO's Hardknocks. He became familiar to Chiefs fans who watched the series as the guy who had to tell players they were cut from the team. Ray-Ray is rapidly becoming one of my favorite Chiefs employees. He is not the Grip Reaper, he is the "Angel of Life".
He is bringing life to the Chiefs organization by working seven days a week at scouring the football world to find new talent. Ray-Ray has worked non-stop rotating the Chiefs practice squad and auditioning players. His work could pay big dividends.
The Chiefs since September 1st have made 35 PRACTICE SQUAD TRANSACTIONS! Ray-Ray watches the tape and works the phones looking for "hidden gems" from all levels and all kinds of football. Already, the team has benefited from his work, four current players on the active roster are refugees from the practice squad. They are:
*Gilbert Harris, RB
*Khreem Smith, DE
*Bobby Sippio, WR
*Tre Stallings, OL
There are others who are currently on the practice squad who could move up next year. They are:
*Jackie Battle,RB
*Claude Harriott, DE
*T.J. Jackson, DT
*Jason Capizzi, OT
Chiefs fans will always prepare for the two day NFL Draft with zeal. Ray-Ray Farmer's draft lasts all year as he strives to find the "diamonds in the rough" of the NFL. Some of the players listed above have been very impressive in Chiefs practices this year, prompting me to wonder if there is a Practice Squad Pro Bowl somewhere. I may have to start one. I'll have the game at the Earlham, Iowa high school football field just west of Des Moines. I'm not sure how big a crowd it will draw, but I know one person who will be there watching....Ray-Ray Farmer, the Angel of Life.

DAY OLD DONUTS

noreply@blogger.com (Chiefs Radio) — Mon, 03 Dec 2007 16:18:00 +0000

This past five weeks of the Chiefs season reminds me of day old donuts. My grandfather used to run a famous donut shop in Northeast Kansas. The donuts were awesome when they were fresh. Grandpa, like every donut maker, tried to sell his day old donuts, but they were stale and not nearly as good.

The Chiefs roster is a big donut. You can scroll down and find my earlier blog on "WHERE'S THE MIDDLE CLASS" and see what I mean. The 53 man Chiefs roster this past Sunday included 15 players with 8 years or more experience. Tony Gonzalez and Donnie Edwards are the only two players in that category who have played at a consistently high level for the entire season.

It could be predicted that 10 of those 15 players will not be with the Chiefs next year. That list would include; Ty Law, Jason Dunn, Damon Huard, Eddie Kennison, Chris Terry, Kyle Turley, John Welbourn, Greg Wesley, Casey Wiegmann and John Carney. It is not shocking that seven of the ten are offensive players. One of the strategic blunders of the past two years is that the Chiefs tried to run the same, old offense with the same, old players. What once was an offense that resembled a fresh donut became day old donuts at the end of the shelf.

In contrast, the other part of the donut is that 23 of Sunday's 53 man roster had 3 years or less experience. It is interesting that three of the five Pro Bowl worthy Chiefs players are in this category. Dustin Colquitt, Dwayne Bowe and Derrick Johnson have all performed as All-Pro types along with T Gonz and of course, Jared Allen.

Herm Edwards deserves the chance to rebuild this team and do it his way (acutally the way the Colts, Patriots and Steelers are doing it). He should have the opportunity to have to bring balance to the roster with older, experienced high performing players being a base for a roster mostly built with younger, developing stars.

You have four more weeks to buy the day old donuts. Then, hopefully the donut shop will be closed.

HOLDING YOUR BREATH FOR?????...30 YARD FIELD GOALS?

noreply@blogger.com (Chiefs Radio) — Mon, 26 Nov 2007 17:06:00 +0000

The Chiefs are in a rebuilding/retooling/transition mode. However, there are certain situations that require precision no matter the status of the team. A perfect example is kicking 30 yard field goals. Len and I hold our breath and cross our fingers everytime the Chiefs attempt a 30 yard field goal. That shouldn't happen in the NFL.

Dave Rayner has missed THREE field goals of 33 yards or less in 10 games!Justin Medlock missed a 30 yard field goal at Houston to begin the season. FOUR missed field goals of 33 yards or less in 11 games? It shouldn't happen. 30 yard field goals are commonplace for high school kickers throughout the Chiefs Kingdom. The problem is amplified when you compare what has happened in 2007 to the Chiefs kickers with the rest of the AFC West.

Jason Elam has been the Denver Bronco kicker for 15 years. He has missed 10 field goals from the 30-39 yard range in 15 years! This year he is 3-3 from that range. "SEABASS" Sebastian Janikowski has been the Oakland Raider kicker for 8 years. He has missed 7 field goals from the 30-39 range in 10 years! This year he is 5-5 from that range. This week, the San Diego Chargers come to town with Nate Kaeding as their kicker. The 25 year old has missed 2 field goals from 30-39 yards in 4 years. He is 3-4 this year from that range.

Len and I are usually short of breath anyway, we or Herm shouldn't have to hold our breath when the Chiefs are trying a 30 YARD FIELD GOAL. Yes, this Chiefs team is rebuilding/retooling/transitioning. However, the Chiefs COULD have beaten Green Bay and Indianapolis and SHOULD have beaten Denver and Oakland at home. This week should have been a showdown game with the Chargers featuring two teams leading the division with 6-5 records, now the focus is just to win a game and sweep the Bolts. Let's just hope that 30 yard field goals become automatic again someday soon for the Chiefs.