Chiefs-49ers: 8 winners and 2 losers in Super Bowl rematch in Week 7

On Sunday afternoon we saw a strange (and dominant) performance from the Kansas City Chiefs, as they moved to 6-0 with a 28-18 victory over the San Francisco 49ers. There were five interceptions and multiple injuries to wide receivers in this contest. Each team had to adapt – tight ends led both teams' receiving stats.

Here are some Chiefs who stood out in Kansas City's significant win.

winner

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Running back Kareem Hunt: It's crazy to say this — but in 2024, the player the team suddenly released in 2018 is now Kansas City's lead cow running back. When the passing offense struggled, Hunt took over the Chiefs' offense and ran through defenders for a total of over 80 yards and two touchdowns on the afternoon. Somehow he's made it back into the squad – and more importantly, he's (mostly) back to his 2018 form. It feels easy Right. And Here's a shout out to Kansas City's interior offensive linewhich looks great with Hunt running behind it.

Wide receiver/punt returner Mecole Hardman: This sixth-year wideout could be on the team's roster just to torment the 49ers. On Sunday, Hardman made four plays that contributed to the win, including a 20-yard touchdown run and a 55-yard punt return. The Chiefs even tried to get him into the end zone with a variation of the route he ran to win Super Bowl LVIII — but Hardman slipped on his break. Even if you include this piece, The is the hard man Kansas City needs.

Defensive backs Christian Roland-Wallace and Jaden Hicks: The worst news of the day was Jaylen Watson's injury. But watching these two freshmen get defensive snaps – And Interceptions – was great. Both took San Francisco points off the board. They prevented it from becoming a closer game – and perhaps argued for more playing time.

EDGE George Karlaftis: In recent weeks we have criticized him for his lack of impact. And against the 49ers, he absolutely responded. An angry George returned to the offensive backfield with multiple pressures, two quarterback hits and a sack. He saved his best passing attack of the day (one of the best of his career) for the closing moments of the game, when he set up and executed an inside spin to hit San Francisco's Brock Purdy on the throw. That led to an interception.

Tight End Noah Gray: On Sunday, the undisputed No. 2 tight end not only contributed, but was also featured in some big moments. Gray finished with four first downs on four catches for 66 yards.

Quarterback Patrick Mahomes: Our fantasy football teams don't love his numbers, but it's hard not to love how Mahomes finds ways to win. We've often said, “The best Mahomes is a running Mahomes.” That was certainly the case in Week 7. Not only did he break a Titan-like 33-yard sideline run, but he also made a hard-hitting safety on the ensuing touchdown. Never bet against the Chiefs when Mahomes is on the field.

Linebacker Leo Chenal: From the broadcast booth, Tom Brady called him one of the most underrated players in the league. We should pay attention to what he does for Kansas City. When he connects with defensive linemen, drops into coverage or makes tackles on special teams, he is strong and athletic – and has shown the instincts that make opposing teams fear him. Have you wondered how the Chiefs' run defense became one of the best in the league? Look at #54.

loser

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Wide receiver Skyy Moore: Sigh. After missing his only chance this week, the former second-round pick has no chance at three goals this season. If Moore were a factor, Kansas City might not need to trade for a receiver. Guess what? The team needs to trade for a receiver.

Tight end Travis Kelce: Kansas City's superstar tight end had four catches for 17 yards in San Francisco, where the 49ers swarmed him like a bunch of Swifties. However, we should note that Kelce was great as a blocker, proving (once again) that he is underrated in that regard. But his offensive production continues to be below his typical standard – even if the team lacks pass catchers.

Note: The use of the terms “winner” and “loser” is not intended to constitute an assessment of the talent or character of any of these players. It's just an easy way to evaluate their performance in a single game. No disrespect is intended.