KANSAS CITY CHIEFS
Need for Balance Weighing On Edwards in First Season
"I don't want people to think that I'm trying to [take] air out of the ball," new Chiefs coach Herman Edwards said. "I'm not trying to do that at all."
(By David Eulitt -- Associated Press)
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The philosophy changed when Herman Edwards arrived in Kansas City, and it was more involved than importing the cover-2 defense. There also were changes in thought and in how practices would be run. But Edwards wants to make clear he has not ignored the offense.
"I don't want people to think that I'm trying to [take] air out of the ball," Edwards said. "I'm not trying to do that at all. I'm basically now trying to make some first downs so we can stay on the field."
The usual names for the Chiefs ought to produce -- running back Larry Johnson, tight end Tony Gonzalez and quarterback Trent Green. Running back Priest Holmes, however, is out for at least six weeks. But questions linger about whether they will remain as effective after Al Saunders, their former offensive coordinator, departed to run the Redskins' offense. Saunders was responsible for implementing the Chiefs' high-powered offense.
On defense, where the Chiefs need to improve the most (their pass defense ranked 30th last year), Kansas City signed cornerback Ty Law and drafted defensive end Tamba Hali. Defensive end Jared Allen had 11 sacks last season, continuing his development into a marquee pass rusher.
Still, the Chiefs must make the adjustment to Edwards and his fast, loud and intense style. Edwards is convinced that is happening.
"Character people know when you change a coaching staff, you're going to have to change some," Edwards said. "These guys have done that and have adapted pretty well."
