Super Bowl LIV: 11 potential difference-makers on the Chiefs
The Chiefs' Patrick Mahomes reacts after throwing a touchdown pass to Tyreek Hill during the first half of the AFC Championship Game against the Titans on Jan. 19. Credit: AP/Charlie Neibergall
No. 87 Travis Kelce, TE
Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce reacts to a first down against the Texans in the first half of their AFC Divisional playoff game at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Mo., on Jan. 12. Credit: EPA-EFE/Shutterstock/Larry W. Smith
Physical playmaker is one of the NFL’s top tight ends. He creates mismatches as well as opportunities for other players because of the attention he receives.
No. 15 Patrick Mahomes, QB
Patrick Mahomes of the Chiefs holds up the Lamar Hunt trophy after defeating the Titans in the AFC Championship Game at Arrowhead Stadium on Jan. 19 in Kansas City, Mo. Credit: Getty Images/Tom Pennington
He’s a difference-maker every time he takes the field. No quarterback keeps plays alive and makes things happen the way the dynamic Mahomes can.
No. 10 Tyreek Hill, WR
Tyreek Hill of the Chiefs runs for a seven-yard touchdown in the first quarter against the Titans in the AFC Championship Game at Arrowhead Stadium on Jan. 19 in Kansas City, Mo. Credit: Getty Images/Matthew Stockman
One of the most difficult players to guard because of his speed and elusiveness. Hill is not only a difference-maker, but a game-changer.
No. 95 Chris Jones, DT
The Chiefs' Chris Jones reacts during the first half of the AFC Championship Game against the Titans on Jan. 19 in Kansas City, Mo. Credit: AP/Charlie Riedel
The extra week between games has given the Chiefs' best pass-rusher additional time to heal, which could make him more impactful against the 49ers.
No. 32 Tyrann Mathieu, SS
The Chiefs' Tyrann Mathieu reacts during the second half of the AFC ChampionshipGame against the Titans on Jan. 19 in Kansas City, Mo. Credit: AP/Charlie Neibergall
The veteran safety has raised his game late in the season, and his versatility will be key as he tries to contain George Kittle and make plays in the run game.
No. 55 Frank Clark, DE
Frank Clark of the Chiefs sacks Titans quarterback Ryan Tannehill in the AFC Championship Game at Arrowhead Stadium on Jan. 19 in Kansas City, Mo. Credit: Getty Images/David Eulitt
He’s healthy and has made his presence felt in the postseason with four sacks in two games. The Chiefs need Clark to be disruptive.
No. 71 Mitchell Schwartz, RT
Chiefs offensive tackle Mitchell Schwartz addresses the media at a news conference on Jan. 22 at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Mo. Credit: AP/Charlie Riedel
A good pass-blocker and a fixture on a line that has protected Mahomes well, but he'll be tested against the Niners’ front.
No. 26 Damien Williams, RB
Chiefs running back Damien Williams scores a touchdown past Texans safety Justin Reid during the second half of an NFL divisional playoff game in Kansas City, Mo., on Jan. 12. Credit: AP/Jeff Roberson
He has stepped up after an injury plagued and inconsistent regular season, with four touchdowns this postseason, including one receiving.
No. 14 Sammy Watkins, WR
Chiefs wide receiver Sammy Watkins runs past Jaguars middle linebacker Myles Jack for a 49-yard touchdown after a reception on Sept. 8, 2019, in Jacksonville, Fla. Credit: AP/Phelan M. Ebenhack
Sometimes gets overlooked, but the veteran receiver can beat you, as he proved in the AFC ChampionshipGame against Tennessee (7 catches, 114 yards, 1 TD).
Mecole Hardman, WR
The Titans' Tramaine Brock is called for pass interference on a pass intended for the Chiefs' Mecole Hardman during the second half of the AFC Championship Game on Jan. 19 in Kansas City, Mo. Credit: AP/Charlie Neibergall
A dual threat as a receiver and returner, the rookie’s breakaway ability on returns could shorten the field for this lethal offense.
Harrison Butker, PK
Harrison Butker of the Chiefs kicks a field goal against the Texans during the fourth quarter in the AFC Divisional playoff game at Arrowhead Stadium on Jan. 12 in Kansas City, Mo. Credit: Getty Images/Jamie Squire
Reliable kicker with a strong leg. If the game comes down to a one play, and the ball isn’t in Mahomes' hands, a field goal off of the foot of Butker is a good option.
Sarra Sounds Off, Ep. 15: LI's top basketball players On the latest episode of "Sarra Sounds Off," Newsday's Gregg Sarra and Matt Lindsay take a look top boys and girls basketball players on Long Island.
Sarra Sounds Off, Ep. 15: LI's top basketball players On the latest episode of "Sarra Sounds Off," Newsday's Gregg Sarra and Matt Lindsay take a look top boys and girls basketball players on Long Island.
