Defensive Position Comparison: Chiefs vs. Eagles
Defense Determines Championships
The Chiefs and Eagles are preparing to clash in less than a week. Evaluating their rosters can offer insight into who might come out on top. After analyzing their offenses, the focus now shifts to the defense.
Defensive Backs
The Kansas City Chiefs traded away their top cornerback during the offseason, and many, myself included, thought this would severely hurt their defense. Trent McDuffie emerged as the top cornerback this season, but the Chiefs’ pass defense still faced challenges. Justin Reid has been a solid addition to the Chiefs’ safeties, contributing significantly in this year’s playoffs. The Chiefs’ defensive backfield remains their defensive weak link. On the other hand, the Eagles’ defensive backs are among the NFL’s best. Rookies Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper Dejean have made critical plays throughout the season, while veteran Darius Slay leads the cornerback group, which is considered elite. Reed Blankenship and C.J. Gardner-Johnson are solid safeties, ensuring consistency for the Eagles’ secondary.
Winner – Eagles DBs
Linebackers
Zack Baun, a finalist for Defensive Player of the Year, has been a key figure in the Eagles’ defense, excelling in run stopping, pass coverage, and forcing turnovers. He is a game-changer. Nakobe Dean had been his partner but will miss the Super Bowl due to injury. Backup Oren Burks has stepped in admirably, but his performance in the big game will be under scrutiny. For the Chiefs, Nick Bolton, Drue Tranquill, and Leo Chenal provide strong linebacker play. Bolton and Chenal have experience in recent Super Bowls, while Tranquill is a newcomer from last year. Each linebacker has contributed significantly and remained consistent. The choice between the two teams comes down to a single standout linebacker versus a reliable trio, and Zack Baun stands out as the key difference-maker.
Defensive Line
Chris Jones is arguably the top defensive tackle in the NFL. Regardless of the offensive linemen opposing him, Jones consistently outmatches them, making impactful plays. He thrives under pressure and will undoubtedly be a force in the Super Bowl. Alongside him, George Karlaftis had an impressive season with eight sacks. After these two, however, the Chiefs’ defensive line lacks depth. For the Eagles, it’s hard to pinpoint a weak spot on the defensive line. Philadelphia’s strategy of drafting defensive linemen, even when not needed, has paid off. Defensive tackles Jordan Davis and Jalen Carter are both powerful players who excel at overpowering offensive linemen and disrupting plays in the backfield. On the edge, Brandon Graham is recovering from an injury and may not be at full strength, but Milton Williams and Josh Sweat have performed well, with Sweat recording eight sacks. Similar to the linebackers, the decision here boils down to one elite player versus multiple strong contributors. With Chris Jones being a dominant force and Karlaftis adding depth, the Eagles’ three impressive defensive linemen give them a slight edge in terms of overall strength.
Winner – Chiefs Defensive Line
In my view, the Eagles have a stronger roster overall when comparing position groups. Whether that will make the difference remains to be seen, but based on the paper analysis, the Philadelphia Eagles should emerge victorious in this game.
