The Kansas City Chiefs victory over the Cincinnati Bengals in January’s AFC Championship game was absolutely thrilling and featured plenty of jaw-dropping moments. One of the most impressive was an interception by then-rookie cornerback Jaylen Watson late in the first half to stall a promising Bengals drive.
The clutch defensive takeaway wasn’t the only play that caught analyst Brian Baldinger’s eye as he pointed out a later situation against Bengals star Tee Higgins.
In a video posted to social media, the former offensive lineman gushed over Watson’s athletic ability and awareness. He first broke down the interception on Joe Burrow that helped swing the momentum to the eventual victory at Arrowhead Stadium.
.@Chiefs @JaylenWatson12 makes these critical plays against an elite QB/WR duo! Does tge #Chiefskingdom win this AFC CH Game without the help of their 7th round rookie??? #BaldysBreakdowns pic.twitter.com/K5Odb6PCGH
— Brian Baldinger (@BaldyNFL) July 17, 2023
“A lot of people remember this 3rd and 2 Play by Jaylen Watson,” Baldinger said during his analysis of the plays. “[He is] one-on-one with Tee Higgins here. Three minutes ago in the second quarter. He comes down with that interception. The play is really remarkable because Joe Burrow has got a good pocket. They’re doubling Chris Jones. He’s able to step, aim and fire right here. And really, there’s a reason why six two corners are at a premium. He jumped right in front of Tee Higgins and takes that ball away.”
Baldinger flashed back a little later in the game to focus on a critical deflection at the goal line from Watson that intrigued him as much as the interception.
“What a lot of people don’t remember is this play with 11 seconds to go in the half keeping Tee Higgins out of the end zone here.” said Baldinger, “You can’t play this ball any better. Burrow puts it right on Tee Higgins’ fingers, except Watson’s there to tip it away. I mean, do the Chiefs win a Super Bowl, win the championship game without the play of their seventh-round pick Jalen Watson”.
This high praise for Watson is a great sign for the Chiefs’ young secondary, especially after Baldinger had previously praised cornerback Trent McDuffie’s performance in the impressive playoff victory.
