Chiefs beat Falcons. Three takeaways.

On Sunday, September 22nd, the Kansas City Chiefs survived a gritty showdown at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, defeating the Atlanta Falcons 24-21 and improving to 3-0 on the season.

Takeaway One: Rashee Rice Emerging as a Key Target

In his second season with the Chiefs, wide receiver Rashee Rice is starting to make his mark. His touchdown grab from Patrick Mahomes in the game was crucial, securing a tight victory for Kansas City. Rice's development has been essential, especially with other receivers like Skyy Moore still struggling for consistency. His size and physicality were on full display, making him a reliable target in the red zone. Rice caught twelve passes for 110 yards, showing a clear connection with Mahomes that can only grow as the season progresses. With Mahomes needing trustworthy weapons outside of Travis Kelce, Rice’s role could expand even further.

Takeaway Two: Chiefs Run Defense Holds Up Against Bijan Robinson

The Chiefs' run defense faced a significant test against one of the most dynamic backs in the league, Bijan Robinson. The Falcons were unable to dominate on the ground in critical moments, thanks largely to a strong effort from linebackers Nick Bolton and Leo Chenal They plugged gaps and forced Kirk Cousins to throw, limiting Atlanta’s ability to control the pace of the game. Kansas City's front seven was pivotal in forcing a turnover on downs in the fourth quarter when Allegeier was stuffed on a fourth-and-short situation, giving the Chiefs a chance to seal the win.

Takeaway Three: Justin Simmons Continues to Haunt Mahomes

Once again, Patrick Mahomes struggled against Justin Simmons, the Falcons’ star safety. While Simmons is better known for his time with the Broncos, his impact was felt in this game as well, intercepting Mahomes in the second quarter and nearly picking off another pass later in the game. He’s developed a knack for disrupting Mahomes’ rhythm, having haunted the MVP in past matchups as well. Despite the Chiefs' offensive firepower, Simmons’ ability to read Mahomes' eyes and make crucial stops kept Atlanta in the game far longer than expected.