Kansas City was able to jump out to an early 10-0 lead on the Saints in the first quarter, but was held to only ten more points the rest of the game. Individual players did have huge games for the Chiefs though as backup running back Derrick Blaylock ran for nearly 200 yards while Chiefs quarterback Trent Green topped the 300-yard passing mark. His favorite target was wide receiver Eddie Kennison, who went over one hundred yards receiving on the day.
The Saints had a couple of offensive stars as well. Deuce McAllister was able to rush for over 120 yards and one touchdown on just 16 carries while wide receiver Joe Horn amassed 157 receiving yards on five receptions with a touchdown and quarterback Aaron Brooks rushed for one score and passed for another. The defense was the essence of bend but don’t break as they allowed Kansas City’s offense to march up and down the field but stiffened in the red zone, eventually ending the game with two fumbles recovered and two interceptions, the final one sealing the game.
After the game, Coach Jim Haslett said he hoped that this win would force the media to cut defensive coordinator Rick Venturi some slack. Uh coach, your defense still gave up four hundred and ninety-seven yards to a team without it’s best weapon. Statements like this generally have Saints fans scratching their heads as to why Jim Haslett is allowed to continue to coach this team. In an era of coaches taking over coordinating duties when their teams are floundering, Haslett seems content to continue to let Venturi be out-coached week after week. If not for some lucky breaks and uncharacteristic mistakes by the Chiefs, this game could have very well spelled the end for Haslett. As it stands, his coaching seat remains hot as Denver rolls into town next week.