Each week during the 2005 season I will choose an offensive, defensive and special teams player of the game. Here are my selections for the Chiefs after their big win over the Broncos:
Offense: The offensive line
Three individuals had great performances against Denver and deserved strong consideration for this week’s honor – quarterback Trent Green, running back Larry Johnson and wide receiver Eddie Kennison – but after careful consideration, I’ve decided to go with the entire offensive line.
The offensive line paved the way for 168 rushing yards, 140 of those by Larry Johnson, against the number one rush defense in the league. Just as impressive, they didn’t allow Denver a single sack, and gave Trent Green plenty of time to pick apart the Bronco secondary to the tune of 253 yards and two touchdowns.
Defense: LB Kawika Mitchell
Another very tough decision, with multiple players deserving of this week’s honor, but I’ve decided to go with linebacker Kawika Mitchell. Mitchell led the Chiefs defense with seven tackles and an assist, and helped keep the Denver offense in check, holding the Broncos to 105 net yards in the second half. Mitchell’s interception early in the third quarter led to three points for the Chiefs.
Special Teams: K Lawrence Tynes
This week’s honor would have gone to kick returner Dante Hall, who averaged 23.8 yards per return, but his fumble late in the second quarter was nearly disastrous. Thank goodness the defense rose to the occasion and kept Denver off the scoreboard. Tynes wasn’t called into action much on Sunday, but he did connect on an important 34 yard field goal in the third quarter.
