What happened: Denver's defense gave up 248 yards after contact on missed tackles during Monday night's opener. The Chiefs closed out a 31-10 final at Arrowhead, dropping Denver to 0-1.
Why it matters: A 26.37% miss rate, third-worst in a game since 2022 per SumerSports live data, points to a unit-wide failure rather than one broken play. The defeat extends Kansas City's home streak over Denver and cedes early ground in the division race.
By the numbers: Denver: 248 yards after contact on missed tackles. Missed tackle rate: 26.37%, third-worst single-game mark since 2022 per SumerSports. Final: Kansas City 31, Denver 10.
What to watch: Denver gets a full week of practice to correct tackling before its Week 2 matchup.