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3. Patrick Mahomes against Vic Fangio

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The Miami defense will be playing through an extensive list of injuries to impact players. It will take an incredible game plan to overcome that — but that’s exactly what defensive coordinator Vic Fangio can do.

“They’re a good defense,” Kansas City quarterback Patrick Mahomes acknowledged on Tuesday. “They have a great defensive coordinator in Vic Fangio, who I know really well. He has done a great job of having different schemes every time I play against him.”

Mahomes’ career low single-game passer rating came in a 22-9 win over Denver in 2021, when Fangio was the head coach there. The veteran defensive play-caller has disrupted Mahomes’ rhythm multiple times.

4. Kansas City’s left tackle

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With rookie Wanya Morris officially ruled out with a concussion, veteran left tackle Donovan Smith is projected to return to the starting lineup. He has been dealing with a neck injury — and not seen the field since Week 13.

The Chiefs, however, need to be wary. A few weeks ago, Smith’s initial return to the practice field was cut short when he suffered a setback. If that happens in this game, Kansas City needs to have a plan that doesn’t involve flipping right tackle Jawaan Taylor to the other side.

If Smith doesn’t make it through the whole game, watch for left guard Joe Thuney to kick out — and veteran Nick Allegretti to fill in at left guard.

5. Overwhelming Miami’s depleted front

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The Dolphins will be without their three most-used edge defenders on Saturday — along with linebacker Jerome Baker, who has led with the second level in snaps this season.

Kansas City needs to take advantage by pounding the rock. Running back Isiah Pacheco should take advantage of the offensive line winning the battle up front — especially on stretch runs, which would take advantage of Miami’s weakened defensive edges.

The Chiefs may have to chip away at it for a while — but a consistent ground attack should wear out the depleted front, limiting the obvious passing downs where Fangio can dial up blitzes.