Chargers vs Chiefs: 3 x factors
By: Jake Rajala
The Los Angeles Chargers square off against the Kansas City Chiefs next Friday. It is sure to be a blood bath. With that said, I’m going to take a unique angle by unfolding a few x-factors for the game.
Noah Gray
Travis Kelce is on his last legs, to be fair. I don’t believe he is a first-team All-Pro anymore. Of course, it’s hard to hate him, as he’s engaged to Taylor Swift. I believe the start of Noah Gray’s production will spike up in Week 1. Gray had career numbers in yards (437) and touchdowns (5) in 2024. I expect him to put up around several hundred yards in this upcoming season. He will also help heal the void left by DeAndre Hopkins.
Bud Dupree
Bud Dupree has been on a roller coaster throughout the years. However, he may have found a home with the LA Chargers. He recorded six sacks, 10 QB hits, and even an interception with the Chargers last season. He is going to have a bigger role with Joey Bosa out of town. He is 32 years old, so he only has a couple of quality seasons left in the tank, in my opinion.
Elijah Mitchell
I don’t know if Elijah Mitchell is an 1k yard back anymore, but he can still shine in space. He reminds me of Jerick McKinnon, who had a short stint with the KC Chiefs. They are both well-rounded and quality pass catchers. I believe that he will pass up the old Kareem Hunt as the season goes along. It should be noted that Andy Reid loves to use a few RBs.
As you can see, there are a few true x-factors. Each team has quality depth with its weapons. Hence, it’s easy to peg some backups as quality x-factors. I expect to not only see fireworks from these studs, but I believe I will see consistency with these x-factors throughout the season, as well.

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