What have we learned in the past few weeks?

[Nicomo Cosca]

(12-30-2020, 12:59 PM)SHRacerX Wrote: If you want to use KC as the measuring stick, you need to ask yourself how successful Mahommes and Kelce would be without Hill and their other blazing outside WR (that plays over Watkins) aren't creating instant separation and taking the top off the defense so Kelce can work underneath.  Kelce is a heck of a receiver, but a below average blocker.  They have a really good offensive line, too.

If you look at them, what is the thing the Bengals miss the most in that offense?  I would say it is the vertical threat that can generate quick separation.  Hill gives Mahommes a deep threat, but also a screen receiver or dumpoff on a blitz that moves the sticks.  I would rather have a WR like Chase than a TE like Pitts.  We don't need another body that can get open and has good hands in the middle, we need the piece that opens up everything in the middle.  Chase does that more than Pitts.  

And while we are quick to hammer Sample for being taken middle second round, he is grading out around 60, which includes an above average blocking grade and he usually catches the ball and moves the chains just fine when he is targeted.  It isn't his fault that he is largely asked to stay in and block. 

Hey I’m all for taking Chase. I’d be super happy with him or Pitts.

I disagree Kelce is a below average blocker though.

Heading into Sunday's win over the Carolina Panthers, Kelce's name was atop the leaderboards in several other statistical categories. He led all tight ends with at least 200 snaps played in Pro Football Focus' grades for run blocking (79.5), receiving (89.6), and overall offense (90.3), putting up better grades than he ever has. His level of play isn't just elite — it's all-time great.

One of the main points of the George Kittle/Kelce debate for the game's best tight end was centered around run blocking. Kittle received rave reviews for his prowess in that area, while Kelce's quality performances were overlooked. Now, with the 49ers' best offensive player being banged up for most of this season and the Chiefs' leading receiver taking his game to another level, that conversation is over. With that, a new one should begin. It's time to give Kelce his flowers while he's still playing at such an exceptional level.

https://www.si.com/nfl/chiefs/.amp/gm-report/footenotes-travis-kelce-somehow-deserving-more-credit