What really is the problem on the Chiefs defense?

TheScootness — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 05:40:06 -0000

Nice first FanPost. To keep up with the Chiefs news today, we'll be posting lots of FanShots so keep an eye on that section. -Chris

I'd like to pose a question here and see your opinions on the subject.

What really is the problem with the Kansas City Chiefs defense?

There's been quite a bit of criticism directed towards Gunther Cunningham as of late. Maybe this is warranted. Maybe it's not. I haven't been able to make a decision about Gun myself. I love having him on the team, but this may just be a sentimental throwback notion that dreams of the glory days of our defense. Is he still relevant in the modern day of the NFL? I'm not sure, but consider this:

Gun has shown in the past that he can run a successful defense. He certainly did it in the 90's, but some of that success can be credited towards Marty and DT, among others. Since he was rehired in 2005, Cunningham has been steadily improving the defense:

2004 - 31st

2005 - 18th

2006 - 16th

2007 - 13th

So why is it so bad this year? According to the trend so far I was expecting to break into the top 10 of the league. Obviously that hasn't been the case. Is it injuries? Too many young players? Lack of Jared Allen? Lack of significant free agents?

I have another theory: Herm Edwards.

We've all seen Herm's inability or unwillingness to change. Last year's offense was arguably the worst in franchise history. This year's started out much the same way. Then look what happens - Herm finally backs off and lets Gailey do his job. This offense is not Herm Edwards' offense at all. But by abandoning his concrete notions of what a team should be they've actually made it work. The team is actually moving the ball and scoring points now. The offense (beyond all belief) is actually the side of the ball that has given the team an opportunity to win games at times.

The defense seemed to do a serviceable job in 2006 and 2007. Why the sudden change? Who knows, but it does pose the question: What exactly would happen if Herm backed off and let Gun run the defense like he did with Gailey? We all know that the Cover 2 isn't Cunningham's choice of defense. Therefore, he's being forced to run a scheme that goes against his style of coaching. I can't see Herm ever turning away from it since he's known as a defensive coach and the Cover 2 is his baby. But what if they did? What if they threw his set-in-stone policies out the window and let the coordinator run the show?

My guess: major improvement. So who's fault is this really? Let's hear it guys.

SB Nation User Blog: TheScootness

What really is the problem on the Chiefs defense?