Quickie Chiefs takeaways: Offensive line is the unit that's really killing this Patriots offense

Before I went on radio, wanted to post my 3up/3down from the game, along with some quickie game thoughts and videos before coming back with the full breakdown.

We'll start with the real issues with the offense:

1. The biggest issue plaguing the Patriots offensively right now, and it became crystal clear during this game, is that the Patriots have been terrible on the offensive line. With their lack of weapons, I think the Patriots could navigate one or the other, but not both.

The terrible play of the offensive line — Isaiah Wynn, James Ferentz, and Marcus Cannon were awful in this game — has been one of the untold stories of this season. They have been worse at LT, C, RG, and RT this entire season, let alone not having Rob Gronkowski and a fullback.

Other teams know they are weak on the offensive line, so they are pressuring Brady like never before because they know he has no confidence in his receivers. Brady could deal with bad protection if he had a full complement of veteran targets. He can't right now.

2. The defense gave up too many big plays in the first half. Just on one drive, they allowed a third and 19 and a 2nd and 25 — and I didn't like the defensive play calls on either of those plays. Between that and some of the Houston calls, I don't think Steve Belichick is killing it any more. Plus, there were a bunch of missed tackles and there's no way Travis Kelce should have scored on that Wildcat. It was just bad defense.

3. Patrick Mahomes didn't even play well in this game. He's clearly afraid of pressure and is not staying in the pocket and with plays. Must have been his knee injury and it's not out of his head.

4. The Patriots played terrible and still almost won the game. All they have to do is find a way to be a little bit better on offense and they can still win a Super Bowl. But I'm not sure they can.

5. I'm worried about Julian Edelman's left foot (the one he previously had surgery on) and Matt LaCosse's ankle. Both were limping and limited in the fourth quarter.

6. Sony Michel was awful in this game and should be benched.

FOUR UP

Joe Thuney: Allowed just a half run stuff. He's been so good this season. Just outstanding. Will get paid in the offseason.

James White: Just a sensational playmaker. Did have a drop, but he's almost the only hope for this offense right now.

Julian Edelman: He better not be seriously hurt or the Patriots are in deep trouble.

Dont'a Hightower: One of his best games in some time with five total QB pressures.

THREE DOWN

Isaiah Wynn: Had him for 13 minus plays. He was terrible.

James Ferentz: Got shoved around all over the place. Nine minus plays.

Jakobi Meyers: Three drops ... 'nuff said.