Why Saints’ QB concerns KC Chiefs’ defensive coordinator: ‘I don’t forget those things’

The pass was 24 months ago, but the wound remains fresh for Kansas City Chiefs defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo.

Two years ago this week, KC’s defense sold out to try to stop the Las Vegas Raiders on a fourth-and-1 play during a home game on Monday Night Football.

The plan backfired. Then-Raiders quarterback Derek Carr went to a play-action pass instead, exposing the Chiefs’ single-coverage while finding receiver Davante Adams wide open for a 58-yard touchdown.

While talking to reporters Friday, Spagnuolo said Carr “got us” on that particular snap.

“I don’t forget those things,” Spagnuolo said.

It’s just one reason Spagnuolo’s concern level is high this week as KC prepares to face Carr in the QB’s second season with the New Orleans Saints.

Spagnuolo says he always has great respect for guys who are good from “the chin to the hairline,” meaning that they beat teams with their minds and the way they think.

Carr, according to Spagnuolo, is one of the league’s best in that regard.

“Not every quarterback is on,” Spagnuolo said, snapping his fingers for emphasis. “I think he is.”

Carr, 33, is in his 11th professional season. Spagnuolo sees him as a QB who is a threat to beat opposing teams with his arm and also his film study.

“A lot of downs, he’ll know exactly what we’re trying to do. And he’ll have a plan for what he can do with his offense to get them in it (a correct play),” Spagnuolo said. “And I think that’s the challenge when you play a guy like that.”

Chiefs defensive lineman Chris Jones also shared his admiration for Carr on Friday, saying he’s “playing really good football.”

Many advanced measures, at this point, agree with that sentiment.

Pro Football Focus’ charting has Carr ranked first among NFL QBs in both passing grade and overall offensive grade.

Carr also is fifth in NFL Next Gen Stats’ “Completion Percentage Above Expectation” this season.

“Look, he’s one of the most accurate quarterbacks in the league right now, as far as where he’s putting the ball,” Spagnuolo said. “I think his receivers probably appreciate that, and he’s got some guys he can throw it to.”

The Saints lead the NFL while averaging 31.8 points per game. That makes it an intriguing matchup against the Chiefs defense, which hasn’t allowed 30 points or more in the last two seasons.

Spagnuolo believes the Chiefs are going against a “talented” QB when they face Carr on Monday night.

Someone good enough to invade a defensive coordinator’s thoughts — even two years into the future.