CommRadio Super Bowl Position Breakdown: Defensive Line

The biggest game of the year is almost here; and while all eyes are on Patrick Mahomes and Saquon Barkley, games are won in the trenches. Let's take a look at the Chiefs’ and Eagles’ defensive lines stack up against each other.

The Chiefs’ defensive line is glued together by star defensive tackle Chris Jones. While his 37 total tackles, five sacks and one forced fumble don’t necessarily jump out on paper, he’s a game wrecker.

Jones is constantly pressuring the quarterback, and he moves all around the line throughout the game to exploit matchups and present the offense with a different look.

Jones is also a huge factor in the Chiefs’ run defense, along with fellow defensive tackles Tershawn Wharton, Derrick Nnadi and Mike Pennel.

The Chiefs held their opponents to about 102 rushing yards per game, which ranks eighth in the league, and 4.3 yards per carry, tied for fifth in the league.

It’ll be key to see if they can continue this success, as Barkley has had one of the best seasons of all time and is only 30 yards away from breaking the NFL record for most rushing yards in a single season, including the playoffs.

While the Chiefs’ defensive line has been great against the run, they weren’t as great rushing the quarterback, ranking 19th in the league with 39 sacks. However, they’ve stepped it up in the playoffs and have 10 postseason sacks entering the Super Bowl.

Defensive end George Karlaftis has been Kansas City’s best pass rusher, racking up eight sacks in the regular season and adding three in the postseason.

The Eagles’ defensive line is loaded with talent and led by three former Georgia Bulldogs in defensive tackles Jalen Carter and Jordan Davis and edge Nolan Smith Jr. Alongside the Georgia alums is Josh Sweat, who leads the team with eight sacks.

As a team, Philadelphia ranked 15th in the league with 41 sacks. However, like the Chiefs, they’ve been on a tear in the playoffs, also entering the big game with 10 sacks in the postseason.

Philly’s pass rush may also receive a boost for Sunday, as defensive end Brandon Graham is on track to return from a torn triceps he suffered in Week 12.

This would be a huge addition for the Birds, as they’re going against the best quarterback in the league and one of the best improvisers in Mahomes.

When it comes to stopping the run, the Eagles are among the league’s best. They’ve allowed about 104 rushing yards per game, ranking 10th in the league, and 4.3 yards per carry, tied for ninth in the league.

With two talented defensive lines facing off against each other, it truly is anyone’s game, and the battle of the trenches will almost certainly come down to whose offensive line plays better.

Considering the issues the Chiefs have had all season with their offensive line, Philadelphia looks to have the advantage.

Jonathan Hartley is a fourth-year majoring in broadcast journalism. To contact him, email jdh6293@psu.edu.