Bolts in Brazil: Lorenzo Neal & Matt "Money" Smith Live from Brazil preview Mahomes vs. Herbert

Matt "Money" Smith & Lorenzo Neal are both in São Paulo for the Chargers vs. Chiefs game. Key topics include Kansas City’s recent dominance over the Chargers, the importance of limiting mistakes, and how upgrades in the Chargers' run game and tight end group could change the outcome. They highlight Patrick Mahomes’ knack for capitalizing in crunch time and emphasize the need for the Chargers to improve their late-game execution, particularly in running out the clock and finishing drives. They discuss the challenges of containing Mahomes, the importance of complementary football, and how special teams could play a decisive role. Ultimately, both are optimistic about the Chargers’ chances to finally snap their losing streak against the Chiefs if they execute well on all fronts.

00:00:18 – Live from Brazil

00:01:09 – Game Preview & FanDuel Odds

Discussion of current betting lines, Kansas City being favored, and the recent history (seven-game winning streak) the Chiefs have over the Chargers.

00:02:44 – Defenses and Over/Under Prediction

Deep dive into both teams’ defensive strengths, previous low-scoring matchups, and speculation on game outcome based on over/under odds.

00:03:19 – Turnovers and Key to the Game

Explores the importance of turnovers, Mahomes’ mistakes in past matchups, and the Chargers’ need to capitalize when given chances.

00:06:37 – Chargers’ Struggles to Finish Games

Recap of Chargers’ leads in previous games lost in the fourth quarter; focuses on their inability to run the four-minute offense.

00:08:35 – Upgraded Chargers Run Game

Detailed look at the new running back group, the importance of finishing games, and getting backs involved in the passing game.

00:11:33 – Herbert vs. Mahomes—The Quarterback Showdown

Discussion on Justin Herbert’s star power, expectations for him to step up in big games, and the narrative around his career and playoff wins.

00:12:33 – Chargers’ Need for Breakthrough Performances

Explores the need for Herbert to “not blink” against Mahomes, referencing other quarterbacks who thrive in big moments.

00:15:35 – Tight End & Offensive Upgrades

Examines the overhauled tight end group, the importance of new acquisitions, and expectations for a more versatile offense.

00:17:28 – Importance of Setting Season Tone

Both discuss how starting with three divisional games adds pressure and opportunity, and how a win would help change the Chargers’ recent narrative.

00:20:36 – Defensive Keys vs. Chiefs

A look at what the defense needs to do to contain Mahomes, specific matchups, and the rotation on the defensive front.

00:23:20 – Role of Derwin James and Linebackers

Talk about Derwin James’ versatility, linebacker play, and the importance of limiting Kansas City’s run game.

00:24:47 – Limiting Yards and Success Strategies

Analysis of last year's defensive performance, third down/red zone defense, and the importance of controlling the run.

00:26:33 – Complimentary Football & Game Management

Explains why offense and defense must play off each other, the need for sustained drives, and winning third downs.

00:28:27 – Special Teams & Execution in Big Moments

Emphasizes all three phases, the possibility for special teams to decide the outcome, and the pressure on both players and coaches to execute.

00:31:07 – Predictions and Closing Thoughts

Final score predictions (both pick Chargers to win), summary of keys to the game