2nd year Quarterback Patrick Mahomes has some big shoes to fill in Kansas City.
Phillip Rivers has done just about everything in his career except win a Super Bowl.
The stakes are much higher for John Gruden in his 2nd tenure as the Raiders Head Coach.
2nd year Quarterback Patrick Mahomes has some big shoes to fill in Kansas City.
NEW EXPECTATIONS
New Quarterbacks, a new Head Coach, impact rookies, surprise free agent signings, a team finally looking to get over the hump and a fare well tour for the Silver and Black headline the wild, wild west coming into the 2018 season.
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NFLEx
2018
KANSAS CITY CHIEFS
The Chiefs are loaded with fire power on offense led by Running Back Kareem Hunt who led the NFL in rushing yards last year, while Wide Receiver Tyreek Hill and Tight End Travis Kelce both eclipsed 1,000 receiving yards. However a new Quarterback and question marks on defense could hinder Kansas City from winning it's 3rd straight division title.
LOS ANGELES CHARGERS
The Chargers have been flirting with a Playoff bid for the last few years but have been their own worst enemy falling victim to self inflicted wounds. However lessons can be learned from failure and the Bolts seem like a team finally prepared to break through.
OAKLAND RAIDERS
After over achieving in 2016, Oakland couldn't live up to the lofty expectations of a Super Bowl contender last season. A suspect defense, coupled with lack luster play from it's esteemed offensive line and "star players" left the Raiders lagging behind the pack. With a move to Las Vegas coming at seasons end, the Raiders are under pressure to win now or it could be a long season.
DENVER BRONCOS
Ever since the departure of future Hall of Fame Quarterback Peyton Manning, the one obvious and glaring weakness for Denver has been getting consistently good play from the Quarterback position. The Broncos are hoping that free agent pick up Case Keenum can solve that problem and help Denver get back into Playoff contention.
AFC WEST OFF SEASON GRADES
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L.A. Chargers: B+
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Denver: B+
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Oakland: C
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Kansas City: C
Season Preview - September 7, 2018
Preseason View - August 6, 2018