Patriots vs. Chiefs: 6 Surprise hero candidates
![Sep 29, 2014; Kansas City, MO, USA; New England Patriots wide receiver Brandon LaFell (19) is tackled by Kansas City Chiefs cornerback Ron Parker (38) during the first half at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports Sep 29, 2014; Kansas City, MO, USA; New England Patriots wide receiver Brandon LaFell (19) is tackled by Kansas City Chiefs cornerback Ron Parker (38) during the first half at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/1a9161c00b516330914a8b4003fbc0c91ac45378db810612599d503f489db06c.jpg)
3. Akiem Hicks
Last week, Rich Hill of Pats Pulpit pointed out that Hicks was the best acquisition the Patriots made among a flurry of midseason moves. He has climbed up the depth chart to grab the No. 3 defensive tackle spot behind Malcom Brown and Alan Branch. According to Reiss, Hicks was on the field for 27.5 percent of defensive snaps, the third-most among the six defensive tackles the Patriots fielded in 2015.
10 Most valuable Patriots players from 2015
Against the Chiefs’ top-notch ground game, the Patriots are going to need their interior defensive lineman to fill holes. Not only can Hicks provide assistance in that realm, but he is also a decent pass rusher from the defensive tackle position. If Hicks plays well, the Patriots’ front seven will have a better go of it against Charcandrick West and Spencer Ware.
Here’s what Bill Belichick said about HIcks after the win over the Houston Texans in Week 14:
"He’s big, he’s long. I think he complements Branch well. He had production in this game, but he’s had production in other games. Some have been sacks, some haven’t, but he’s done a good job for us in there."
Keep a close eye on Hicks in this game; he could very well prove to be the difference against the Chiefs’ rushing attack.
Next: 2. Leonard Johnson