Sunday’s game between the Tennessee Titans and the Kansas City Chiefs will be the determining factor in which team represents the AFC in Super Bowl LIV.
Both teams will need breakout performances from some of their key players to come out with the win, and both Tennessee and Kansas City present their own unique challenges to their opponent.
Here’s a look at five Chiefs players to keep an eye on this week.
1. RB Damien Williams.
The Chiefs are much more of a passing team than they are a rushing team, but Williams has been an asset, finding the end zone on receptions and carries.
He’s been a historically dominant player in the postseason, having recorded four rushing touchdowns and three receiving scores in postseason contests, including last year’s.
He was a key factor in last week’s win over the Texans, finishing out with two rushing scores and one receiving touchdown.
2. DT Derrick Nnadi.
One of Kansas City’s toughest tasks on Sunday will be stopping Titans running back Derrick Henry, who is a threat in terms of speed as well as an absolute nightmare to tackle.
It will be up to players like Nnadi to slow him down, particularly in making it difficult for the big back to make progress running up the middle of the field.
3. CB Bashaud Breeland.
Breeland led the Chiefs on defense last week against the Texans, coming up with seven total tackles — six of which were solo.
The veteran has put together a strong first season in Kansas City, recording 55 tackles, two interceptions, two fumble recoveries and eight passes defensed.
Breeland is set to be a free agent ahead of the 2020 season.
4. DT Chris Jones.
Jones is one of the most important players the Chiefs have in the center of the defense, totaling nine sacks this year.
Like Breeland, Jones will also be on the free agent market before the 2020 season, and is expected to be a hot commodity.
The defensive tackle is questionable for Sunday, and didn’t play against Houston last week.
5. WR Sammy Watkins.
Just how much will Watkins step up for Kansas City?
The answer to that question could play a large role in the Chiefs’ chances of coming out on top in the title game, especially if the Titans are channeled in on Travis Kelce and Tyreek Hill.
Watkins has had a quiet season overall, but did reel in two 38-yard receptions and also had a 14-yard run.
Watkins had a big outing in last year’s AFC Championship Game with 114 receiving yards, and it will be interesting to see if he can have the same type of success this time around.
