WHEN THE CHIEFS PASS

Quarterback Alex Smith has been outstanding. He has eight touchdown passes and no interceptions. He leads the league with a 124.2 rating. When his protection breaks down, he’ll buy time with his mobility before throwing accurately on the run. He’s not shy about running for first downs. He’s smart and careful with the ball. This would be a good game for J.J. Watt to get his first sack. Watt, Whitney Mercilus, Jadeveon Clowney and Benardrick McKinney have to hit Smith and try to record strip sacks. There’s a lot of pressure on the pass defense to contain tight end Travis Kelce down the middle and super-fast receivers Tyreek Hill and Chris Conley on the outside. Rookie inside linebacker Zach Cunningham will play a crucial role in pass coverage.