AFC West 2010 Preview
by Scott Rickenbach
Denver - Looks like a tough 2010 on tap for the Broncos. Denver finished up last season on a 2-8 run. Injuries are already an issue heading into this season. Coach McDaniels led an offense that was too vanilla and the drop off was evident in 2009 compared to 2008. The defense also is adjusting to new faces and will undoubtedly take some time to round back into form. They struggled against the run last season and, on the other side of the ball, their pass protection dropped off last season and they still have issues entering this season with injuries and personnel changes leading to a lack of cohesion for the unit.
Kansas City - This team is still young but they should show improvement this season. Head coach Todd Haley is much better off with Charlie Weis at offensive coordinator rather than Chan Gailey. Also, Romeo Crennel at defensive coordinator will pay off with the Chiefs. The running game for Kansas City showed improvement last season and they picked up Thomas Jones heading into this season plus the Chiefs made some nice upgrades to the offensive line in the off-season. Kansas City also had a nice draft giving them added depth and we see pointspread value being a possibility with the Chiefs as they will continue to be big dogs.
Oakland - Another ugly dog that is poised to improve. The Raiders were -13 in turnovers in 2009 and that certainly had a lot to do with their poor record. This team showed it does have talent as they managed to pull off some upset wins. QB Jason Campbell was, of course, a major upgrade over JaMarcus Russell and this team has had a different "vibe" in training camp this year. The Raiders draft was solid and added key depth as well as some immediate needs being addressed with players ready to step in as starters. With less off the field issues, don't be surprised if Tom Cable has this team cashing tickets early and often this season.
San Diego - The Chargers, of course, are still the heavy favorites to win the AFC West and that sentiment is certainly justified. The running game was an issue last year but San Diego addressed that in the draft and with offseason moves. Additionally, stopping the run last season was an issue as the Chargers front seven was dealt bad blows through injuries. The pass defense made major strides last season and the front seven will show improved performance this season simply with better health. Injuries really took a toll on San Diego as the season went on last year and, as a result, they are very anxious to make amends for last season's exit from the playoffs. A fantastic aerial attack, solid pass defense, and improvement in the running game (on both sides of the ball) mean that the Chargers are still the team to beat out west in 2010.
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