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I've heard the sports writers say that the offense will slip a little. However, it's very hard to ignore the defensive moves KC made this year. Regardless of how horrible the D has been over the last 4-5 seasons, on paper, they look to have a very solid defensive core.
I think too many people are taking the last few years into account when analyzing this team. I don't see the offense slipping below a top 5 spot all season. And, since I honestly think that the defense, on paper, has drastically improved, I think this team is one of 4 to beat in the AFC; along with Indy, New England, and (yes, I believe this) Baltimore.
I believe the Chiefs will win the West with an 11-5, maybe 12-4, record. The Rai ders will mimic the Chiefs of 2000 where, without a decent RB, they're going to be chucking the ball 50 times per game and finish 7-9. The Donkos will do their typical 9-7, maybe 10-6, season while holding serve at home most of the time. The Chargers are the "who knows" of this conference. I mean, up until last year, Drew Brees has been highly mediocre, so why would anyone think that he's going to be as good in a Marty Schottenheimer offense? He had a 1995-96 Steve Bono like season, and will follow it up with a 1996-97 Steve Bono like season. Chargers go 8-8.
KC wins the conference by at least 2 games.
The playoffs are an entirely different story. I just want to get through the season first.
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