SB Nation - Chris Chambers

Arrowheadlines: Chiefs News 12/14

NJ Chiefs Fan — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 12:27:24 -0000

Well, that sucked. The wheels seem to be falling off, and with that observation, today's Arrowheadlines get kicked off with a little piece from Mr. Jason Whitlock.

That’s the only explanation for Chiefs coach Todd Haley opening his postgame news conference with a disingenuous thank you to the 30,000-plus Chiefs fans who filled 80,000-seat Arrowhead Stadium on Sunday.

"Before I get started," Haley said in the aftermath of Kansas City’s 10th loss, a 16-10 snoozer to the Buffalo Bills, "publicly I want to thank the fans. I thought the fans were tremendous for us today."

Yes, this is the "process" to avoiding a blackout next Sunday.

In the minutes after Kansas City’s $63 million QB launched his fourth interception of the day, misfired on two more open deep balls and was caught by CBS television cameras telling someone — maybe booing Chiefs fans or Haley barking in his headset — to shut the (expletive) up, Haley campaigned for ticket sales.

"I just publicly want to thank the fans for making a lot of noise for us today," Haley said.

The boos were quite loud. And the silence was deafening at times. I can’t really blame the fans.

Chiefs should thank anyone who sat through this game from KC Star

KC Star Photo Gallery: Bills 16, Chiefs 10 | Sunday, Dec. 13

Cassel’s four interceptions led only to three points for the Bills. The Chiefs three takeaways on defense led to zero points for Kansas City. They were minus-one on turnovers and minus-three points off those giveaways. That was enough to make them minus-one in the victory column.

"We went into the game with a clear cut key that if we could win the turnover battle, we would have a very good chance to win the game," said Haley. "We were unable to capitalize on the turnovers we were able to create and then in the end our turnovers put us in a position where we couldn’t win."

Wasted was another good performance from RB Jamaal Charles...

Bills Make Fewer Mistakes and Beat Chiefs 16-10 from Bob Gretz

When this wretched season is mercifully finished, the Chiefs won’t need to watch video of every snap to relive their offensive futility.

They can merely review the final 8 minutes of Sunday’s 16-10 loss to Buffalo at Arrowhead Stadium. Even in that short time span, the Chiefs committed almost every offensive sin imaginable: two big dropped passes, two interceptions, two holding penalties and three receivers failing to get out of bounds when the Chiefs were desperate to save time.

Every one was a factor in the defeat.

Chiefs can't overcome offensive mistakes in 16-10 loss to Bills from KC Star

Walking out of the stadium a week ago, I ran into Roger, a big Chiefs fan I know who had watched the debacle against Denver. He had drowned his sorrows in a suite after the game and was stumbling his way out of the building.

"Hey Gretz," he yelled over his shoulder, as his long suffering wife Anne was dragging him to the parking lot. "There’s nothing as bad as losing to the Donkeys. It can’t get any worse than this."

Oh yes it can Roger. It did. It’s one thing losing to a Denver team that’s in the hunt for a wildcard spot in the playoffs. It’s another to go down to the Buffalo Bills, a 4-8 team with an interim head coach and a starting quarterback who might have a degree from Harvard but should not be starting for an NFL team.

Column: Yes It Can Get Worse And Did from Bob Gretz

Chiefs head coach Todd Haley had three critical fourth-down decisions to make Sunday.

Only one of them worked out in the 16-10 loss to the Buffalo Bills at Arrowhead Stadium.

•Decision 1: The Chiefs faced fourth and 1 after recovering a fumble at the Buffalo 9 in the first quarter of a scoreless game. They decided to go for it and inserted backup offensive tackle Barry Richardson and linebacker Mike Vrabel as eligible receivers. Vrabel has 11 career touchdown catches from that formation.

Crucia l decisions on fourth downs don't pan out for Chiefs from KC Star

If the two key guys in the 2009 Chiefs offense were on escalators, they would pass each other going up, and going down.

Jamaal Charles is on the up escalator, as he continues to show that he has the ability to be a top-flight offensive threat in the NFL.

Matt Cassel is on the down escalator, as he continues to struggle to establish himself and the Chiefs passing game as a productive and consistent offensive force.

Both were on display Sunday as the Chiefs fell to the Bills 16-10. Charles and his legs kept the Chiefs in the game in the second half, when Cassel and his passes were taking them out of the action.

It’s not a good combination for producing victories, which probably explains the three straight losses the Chiefs have suffered.

Offense: One Guy Up, Another One Down from Bob Gretz

Chiefs running back Jamaal Charles almost made the offensive and defensive plays of the game Sunday against Buffalo.

It wasn’t enough that Charles scored the Chiefs’ only touchdown of a 16-10 loss with a 76-yard touchdown dash in the third quarter. In the fourth quarter, after a pass went in and out of the grasp of wide receiver Chris Chambers and into the hands of Bills linebacker Paul Posluszny, Charles came from behind and tore the ball from Posluszny’s grasp.

As Charles was ripping the ball out, Posluszny was on top of Chiefs guard Wade Smith, but not on the Arrowhead Stadium turf. The officials, however, ruled Posluszny was down by contact, awarding the ball to Buffalo at the Kansas City 35.

Charles has big day on offense and almost makes big play on defense from KC Star

The numbers jump off the statistical page from Sunday’s game between the Chiefs and Bills:

BUFFALO PASS RECEIVING: Terrell Owens, 2 catches for 15 yards; Lee Evans, 1 catch for 11 yards.

The best tandem of wide receivers that the Chiefs have seen this year were held to three catches for 26 yards. Put the clamps on a pair of receivers like that and a defense expects that they’ll be on the winning side in any game.

It didn’t happen as the Bills beat the Chiefs 16-10.

"I’ll have to wait to see the tape," said CB Brandon Flowers. "Coach (Haley) always talks about hidden yardage, so I’ll be anxious to see where we maybe gave up some hidden yardage. But we really didn’t let those two guys hurt us."

Defense: Good Enough To Win from Bob Gretz

After yielding 245 rushing yards to Denver in last week’s game, the Chiefs were looking for improvement in Sunday’s meeting with the Buffalo Bills at Arrowhead Stadium.

They got it, but just barely. The Bills rushed for an even 200 yards in their 16-10 victory.

The Bills needed every one of those rushing yards, considering they passed for only 73. But the Chiefs once again weren’t strong enough to shut off both facets of an opposing offense.

Chiefs' defense gets run over once again from KC Star

Beauty is clearly in the eye of the beholding winning coach, because this game was uglier than the clothes pro golfers wore in the 1970s.

There was nothing stylish, nor relevant, about the game, which led Fox studio analyst Terry Bradshaw to preface his description of the game's few highlights with "If anybody cares."

Buffalo Bills defeat Kansas City Chiefs from The Democrat and Chronicle

Back in town last Sunday for the ceremonial retirement of Derrick Thomas' No. 58 jersey, Marty Schottenheimer roamed the Chiefs warm-up area. It must have seemed eerily familiar. I don't know what he thought, but I can guess what was on his mind: "What the hell happened to my program"?

That's a loaded question. Short answer: A lot, and very little of it good.

What is going on at Arrowhead these days in no way, shape or form resembles the start of the Schottenheimer-Carl Peterson turnaround; the comeback from back-to-back four-win seasons in 1987 and '88. If you recall, the Chiefs went 8-7-1 in 1989 and looked like a team on the rise with the infusion of new blood (Derrick Thomas) and the improvement of existing players (Neil Smith, John Alt, Albert Lewis, etc.).

Can you imagine the Chiefs losing the last two (or any two) AFC Westgames by a combined score of 87-27 when Marty was coach? Not on your life.

Honeymoon Over for Chiefs Todd Haley & Scott Pioli: Bring In Charlie Weis from The Post Chronicle

Chicago's Jay Cutler and Kansas City's Matt Cassel were the highest-profile quarterbacks traded in the offseason, and the Bears and Chiefs are learning to be careful for what they wish.

Cassel threw a career-high four interceptions against his old AFC East rivals the Bills on Sunday. Cutler had two more picks in a loss to Green Bay to push his league-leading total to 22.
All season, Cutler and Cassel have been pressing to compensate for problems elsewhere on offense. Chicago and Kansas City have fully invested in them as franchise quarterbacks; team officials must be patient while rebuilding around them, starting with the offensive lines.

Week 14 Checkdown: Scramble on for bottom seeds in AFC from Sporting News

This last one is because I like to stir the pot.

NFL.com Video Highlight: Bernard Pollard pick-6

Chambers Dropped Pass Dooms the Chiefs

Joel Thorman — Sun, 13 Dec 2009 22:36:45 -0000

More photos » by Charlie Riedel - AP

Chiefs WR Chris Chambers dropped a key ball in Sunday's loss to the Bills. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)

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One play certainly doesn't define the game but, boy, Chris Chambers dropped pass towards the end of Sunday's game against the Buffalo Bills was ultimately what doomed the Kansas City Chiefs.

"I know one play doesn't dictate the entire game but that was a huge play," Chambers told us after the game.

Facing a 3rd and 10 on the Bills 21 yard line, Cassel found Chambers several steps ahead of the Bills defender. The ball hit him in the hands for what would have been a first down inside the 10 yard line. There was just over 2:00 left in the game so it likely would have been the game winner.

He was well aware that it was a catchable ball and it should have been caught. He even said, "It was a great call."

"I beat the guy really good," he explained. "The ball was kinda on me, low. I made a good effort and tried to scoop it up. I made that play plenty of times before. The ball was on my hands. It was a little low, but it's a play I can definitely make."

Bills head coach Perry Fewell said of Chambers' drop, "That was the game."

"Neither team looked great at times," Fewell continued. "Yes, he did beat the coverage but we were on the lucky end today. Sometimes, you have to have a little luck and we had a little luck today."

I think Chiefs QB Matt Cassel knew it was a catchable he threw to Chambers. He didn't throw his receiver under the bus, instead saying, "I felt that when I threw it and it came off, it was in the direction that I wanted to throw it. Exactly where it hit him, I couldn't really see the end result.

"I'd have to go back and watch the film."

Chiefs Struggle Against the Bills; Lose 16-10

Chris Thorman — Sun, 13 Dec 2009 21:06:47 -0000

More photos » by Charlie Riedel - AP

3 days ago: Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Matt Cassel (7) is sacked by Buffalo Bills safety Bryan Scott (43) during the second quarter of an NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 13, 2009, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)

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This loss really hurts. Maybe it's because the Chiefs had a chance, deep in Buffalo territory, at the end of the game to win it.

But no.

Cassel's pass was tipped and picked off by the Bills with 2:13 left in the game. Chris Chambers had dropped a big pass near the goal line on the previous play.

Dropped passes. Sound familiar?

The Chiefs even got the ball back but a deep Hail Mary pass with no time left was caught by Buffalo.

Here are some notes on the game. Tweet your questions to Joel at @ArrowheadPride.

We need to keep our chins up for one more week in order to sell out the Browns game and preserve the NFL's longest sell out streak for another year.

The Good

The Chiefs defense came up big with twelve minutes left in the game. They shut down the Bills after Buffalo took over with great field position. Rian Lindell missed a 51-yard kick.
RB Jamaal Charles nearly does it all. After a tipped pass resulted in a Buffalo INT, Charles chased down the Bills linebacker and nearly stripped the ball back.
LB Tamba Hali applied pressure all day on QB Ryan Fitzpatrick. Hali had one sack, his 7.5 of the year.
On 3rd and 16, with 7 minutes left, Cassel hit Wade for a 22-yard first down. It was the offensive play of the game. Leonard Pope's 16-yard catch and run on 3rd and 8 was also big.
TE Leonard Pope had a huge game - 4 catches for 45 yards - with a couple of big catches near the end of the game.

The Bad

A Rudy Niswanger holding penalty in the fourth quarter negated a big pass play by Cassel to Chambers.
WR Chris Chambers was called for holding on that huge Jamaal Charles run late in the fourth quarter. This was a killer penalty.
DT Glenn Dorsey left the game before the half with a knee injury. He did not return.
WR Mark Bradley signaling first down when he was ten yards short.
The Chiefs had five penalties in this game, some coming at very critical junctures.

The Ugly

The Chiefs forced three turnovers and scored zero points off of them.
WR Chris Chambers dropped a huge pass near the goal line with under three minutes left. Another drop.
Cassel was 26/43 for 224 yards and four INTs. He had 145 yards passing the first half. His QB rating was 35.4.

Let us know your thoughts in the comments and vote in the poll.

Poll

Grade the Chiefs performance today.

Game Preview: San Diego Chargers at Dallas Cowboys

John (obviousman) — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 14:38:27 -0000

More photos » by John Froschauer - AP

FILE - In this Jan. 6, 2007, file photo, Dallas Cowboys' Tony Romo, left, bobbles the snap as kicker Martin Gramatica steps in for the kick with 1:19 left in the game against Seattle Seahawks in an NFC wild card playoff football game in Seattle. Romo practiced as the holder for kicker Nick Folk on Wednesday, Dec. 9, 2009, and will do it Sunday against the San Diego Chargers. The last time Romo held for the Cowboys was in a playoff loss against the Seahawks. (AP Photo/John Froschauer, File)

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The Chargers playoff scenarios are still in play for this week! I didn't even bother to watch the Thursday night game because I thought rooting for the Browns would be hopeless. Boy, was that a mistake on my part. I'm really all for any situation where the Chargers don't have to play Pittsburgh in the post-season, where they're practically unbeatable.

Anyways, onto this week's game. This starts a rough stretch of games for the Chargers where they're facing two division leaders (Cowboys, Bengals) and two losing teams that are playing really good football lately (Titans, Redskins). This game is also the second-half of the Chargers' only back-to-back road games all season.

The Cowboys are a team that many of us have compared the Bolts to in the past. They have a reserved coach that's constantly on the hot seat, a high octane offense and never seem to live up to expectations. Also, much the same way the Chargers typically start the season slow, the Cowboys have a knack for ending the season with critical losses. So let's dive in and compare these teams to see just how similar they are in this week's game preview.

When the Cowboys Have the Ball

via mentalfloss.cachefly.net

Overall Offense

The Cowboys can certainly rack up yardage. They're 3rd in the league in offensive yards per game, 2nd in yards per play.
Being 10th in the league in points per game, with the amount of yards they get, can only point to one thing. Trouble converting red zone chances into touchdowns.
Typically, going hand in hand with trouble in the red zone you'll find trouble converting 3rd downs. So when you see that the Cowboys are 15th in the league in 3rd down conversion percentage, it should come as no surprise.
In an evenly matched game, many times the winner is decided by mistakes. As in, who wins the turnover and penalty battle. Well, the Cowboys' offense has racked up the 5th most penalty yards this season and has a turnover margin of -2. They're a team that will shoot themselves in the foot if you give them a chance.

Passing Offense

The Cowboys, who throw it a lot more than the Chargers (more on this in a second), are 7th in passing yards per game and 5th in yards per pass attempt.
Tony Romo has been about as careful with the ball this season as had Philip Rivers, throwing 20 TDs against just 7 interceptions.
The Cowboys rank 6th in pass plays of 20+ yards.
Romo, like Ben Roethlisberger, sometimes holds onto the ball too long as he tries to make a play that isn't there. That, plus a couple of injuries on the Cowboys O-line, has led to 27 sacks allowed this season. That puts them in the bottom half of the league in terms of protecting the QB.

Rushing Offense

The Cowboys three-headed rushing attack of Marion Barber, Felix Jones and Tashard Choice are averaging a little over 130 yards per game on the ground. That's good for 8th best in the league. Their 5.0 Yards Per Carry, however, makes them the 2nd most efficient running game in the league.
Being tied for 13th in the league for rushing TDs shows that the Cowboys either have no success running inside the red zone, or prefer to try to pass the ball in for six.
The Cowboys are tied for 4th in the league in running play of 20+ yards. This wouldn't scare any Chargers fan if Eric Weddle was playing, but without him the Cowboys running game could certainly get some big plays.

Overall Defense

The Chargers allow the 12th least yards per game, and rank 11th in lowest yards allowed per play. They are ranked 15th in least points allowed per game.
The Bolts' problem on D continue to be 3rd downs, where they are still ranked 26th in the league.

Passing Defense

The Chargers rank 8th in terms of passing yards allowed per game, and are tied for 9th in yards allowed per pass attempt.
The Bolts' 11 interceptions ties them for 15th best in the league. Their 30 sacks ties them for 8th.
This stat is huge when going up against the Cowboys. The Chargers are tied for 2nd in the least amount of passing plays of 20+ yards allowed. All season this has been a defense that does not give up big plays, and that continues even without Eric Weddle in the lineup.

Rushing Defense

In terms of rushing yards allowed per game, the Chargers are 21st in the league. Their 4.4 Yards Per Carry allowed ties them with four other teams for 21st in the league for that stat as well.
The 8 rushing touchdowns allowed by the Bolts ties them with three other teams (including FO's favorite team, the Eagles) for 11th best in the league.
Going back to the idea that this D does not give up big plays, the Chargers are 6th best in the league at stopping/preventing running plays of 20+ yards. They have allowed only 5 against them all season. They still have not given up a run of 40+ yards.

When the Chargers Have the Ball

via i79.photobucket.com

Overall Offense

The Bolts are 12th in the league in offensive yards per game, but are incredibly efficient. They are 5th in terms of yards per play and 3rd in terms of points per game.
The Chargers' offense has gotten better and better at converting 3rd downs ever since Chris Chambers was sent packing. They've worked themselves up the ranks and are now the 9th best team in the league on 3rd down.
In an evenly matched game, many times the winner is decided by mistakes. As in, who wins the turnover and penalty battle. Well, the Cowboys' offense has racked up the 5th most penalty yards this season and has a turnover margin of -2. They're a team that will shoot themselves in the foot if you give them a chance.
I left that in for comparison's sake. The Chargers' offense has accumulated the least penalty yards of any NFL team this season. The Bolts' turnover margin is +9. This is a team that does not shoot themselves in the foot, and takes advantage of the mistakes of their opponents. Reason for optimism.

Passing Offense

First, a shocking stat. If somebody were to ask you if the Chargers throw the ball a lot, you'd answer "YES!" quickly and emphatically, wouldn't you? Well, you'd be wrong. In terms of pass attempts per game, the Chargers rank 25th in the league. 25th! They throw it less per game than the Dolphins, Redskins, Steelers, 49ers and Giants!
It's kindof funny how similar Philip Rivers' and Tony Romo's stats are, both for this season and their careers. Everyone looks at Romo as a gunslinger and Rivers as an efficient QB, but I suppose that's mostly perception. Just about every stat is the same when you compare them. It's no different this year, as Rivers has thrown one more TD (21) and one less interception (6) than Tony.
The Chargers rank 2nd in pass plays of 20+ yards, having two more than Dallas.
Since Week 1, the Chargers offensive line has changed somewhat dramatically (2 new starters, several new backups) and has seemingly gotten better at protecting Philip each week. They've allowed only 21 sacks this season, and many of those game in the first 5 games. It's still good for 7th best in the league.

Rushing Offense

The Chargers ground game, powered by LaDainian Tomlinson and whoever else wants to give it a try, is averaging just 88.7 yards per game. That's good for 30th best in the league, or two slots better than the undefeated Colts. Their 3.3 Yards Per Carry makes them the 32nd most efficient running game in the league (four slots below Indy).
Being ineffective over the course of a game does not mean the Chargers aren't able to punch it in when they need to. Their "league worst" rushing attack is tied for 12th with 12 TDs.
The Chargers are tied for 23rd in the league in running play of 20+ yards, and it surprises me that they're that high. This is Philip Rivers' offense, and the running game is just for show.

via www.deion-sanders.com

Overall Defense

The Cowboys allow the 14th least yards per game, and rank 16th in lowest yards allowed per play. They are ranked 5th in least points allowed per game.
The Cowboys aren't too shabby on 3rd down, where they have the 14th lowest 3rd down conversion percentage against them.

Passing Defense

"America's Team" ranks 20th in terms of passing yards allowed per game, and are tied for 16th in yards allowed per pass attempt.
The 'Boys 8 interceptions ties them for 21st best in the league. Their 29 sacks ties them for 10th. The pressure is roughly the same as San Diego's, but the turnovers just aren't there.
The Cowboys, although they don't allow many points, do allow big plays in the passing game. They are ranked 13th for the least number of 20+ yard pass plays allowed.

Rushing Defense

In terms of rushing yards allowed per game, the Cowboys are 9th in the league. Their 4.2 Yards Per Carry allowed ties them with three other teams for 14th in the league. This is not the strongest run defense in the league, and the Yards per Carry is not much less than the Chargers D.
The 5 rushing touchdowns allowed by Dallas makes them 5th best in that category.
Much like their passing defense, the Cowboys do occasionally allow a big play to an opposing RB. They've allowed 8 runs of 20+ yards this season, tying them for just 18th best in the league.

Conclusion

After going through these numbers I'm more optimistic about Sunday's game. The running game has a chance to do something, and the offensive line should protect Rivers. Any time you put those two things together, it usually equals big points for the Chargers. Also, eliminating big plays from the Dallas offense will force them to avoid turnovers and penalties, which they haven't done a great job of so far this season.

Add in the Chargers record-breaking winning streak in December against the Cowboys' terrible record in the last couple of Decembers and there are a lot of things working in the Chargers' favor. If you're asking for a prediction from me, as a Chargers fan, I'm saying that the Bolts score a lot of points early to take away the Cowboys running game and end up winning a close game. Whether or not that happens remains to be seen.

Bills Fantasy Friday: Week 14 Start 'Em/Sit 'Em

Kurupt — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 13:30:14 -0000

The Buffalo Bills return to the field this Sunday as they travel to Arrowhead to face the 3-9 Kansas City Chiefs. It's safe to say, this won't be one of the marquee games this weekend. There also aren't many fantasy options available either. Coming off a rotten performance in Toronto against the New York Jets, the Bills are looking for a rebound performance against a team that just got waxed at home by the Denver Broncos, 44-13. Knowing how bad these two teams are, this could be an ugly one. Are there any players worth starting from this game as many of you are beginning your fantasy playoffs this week? Let's find out.

Quarterbacks
Ryan Fitzpatrick - After a stunningly decent two week stretch, Fitzpatrick came crashing back to Earth with his horrendous 98-yard performance against the Jets. He completed just 9 of 23 passes at 4.3 yards a pop. It was ugly and the only positive was he rushed for 32 yards! After facing the NFL's top ranked pass defense last week, he'll get a bit of a respite as the Bills will be going up against the 28th ranked passing defense. The Chiefs have allowed 250.8 yard per game, 8.0 yards per attempt and 21 touchdowns thus far. Looks appetizing, right? Well, it's Ryan Fitzpatrick we're talking about here. Don't even consider starting him unless your league starts four QB's per team. Verdict: Sit 'Em

Matt Cassel - Cassel has been a major bust for the Chiefs so far. The $63 million man has played so poorly that even Trent Edwards has a higher quarterback ranking. He's completed just 53.9% of his passes at 5.7 yards per attempt. Like Fitzpatrick, don't even think about rolling with Cassel. Verdict: Sit 'Em

Running Backs
Fred Jackson - After an excellent game against the Dolphins, Jackson struggled against the Jets last week. He finished with 13 rushes for 31 yards and added 24 yards on 3 receptions. But the Chiefs defense isn't the Jets defense. Expect Jackson to have a nice bounce back game this week. This late in the season, sometimes the best fantasy players arrive as the result of great fantasy matchups. This could be one of those arrivals. If Jackson gets the majority of the touches, or at least a solid 60/40 ratio, don't be surprised if he has one of the better games of his career. He's a great flex play and makes for a pretty solid RB2 play this week. Verdict: Start 'Em

Marshawn Lynch - Lynch had a nice performance last week with six rushes for 60 yards and a touchdown. It was probably the best he's ran all season, but he only had those six rushes. He'll likely get more carries this week, but Jackson seems like the better play and first option. I wouldn't be surprised by a very good performance out of Lynch, but at this point it's much more likely he'll end up with another 10 carry, 30 yard performance. He could be a nice flex option, especially if he gets any red zone carries, but I wouldn't even consider him in a two running back league. Verdict: Sit 'Em

Jamaal Charles - Charles has been one of the biggest fantasy surprises over the past month. The Chiefs have finally given him the majority of the touches and he's rewarding them with back-to-back-to-back-to-back nice games, including at least one touchdown in each of the past four games. He's averaged over 75 rushing yards per game in that stretch, continues to return kicks (including one for a TD against the Steelers) and is a big play RB in the passing game. The Chiefs will rely on him early and often. He should get 20+ touches and could reward fantasy owners with RB2 or even borderline RB1 numbers. For leagues awarding points for return yardage, Charles is an even better option. Verdict: Start 'Em in all leagues

Wide Receivers
Terrell Owens - Like Fitzpatrick, Owens was coming off back-to-back good games, and just like the big-headed QB, he struggled to put up numbers against the Jets. He should put up better numbers again this week, though it's hard to predict big numbers out of anyone in this passing game. I think the Bills will look to continue getting the ball to him downfield, so if they can hit on a big play, Owens might put up those big numbers here. This will be the last time I'm recommending a Bills' WR all season. Love it. Savor it. Cherish it. Verdict: Start 'Em

Lee Evans - Evans continues playing the Invisible Man in the Bills' offense. The team just can't get him the ball and I refuse to believe it's solely on the QB and play calling. At some point, Evans needs to play consistently right? Don't bother with him, although as typical with Evans, just as you write him off he responds with a monster game before fading into the sunset once again. If you have the stomach, roll the dice. Since you likely have better options, go with them. Verdict: Sit 'Em

Dwayne Bowe - In case you haven't been keeping up with the Chiefs this year, Bowe will be missing his fourth consecutive game for violating the league's substance abuse policy. Don't say I've never looked out for your best interest, Bills friends. Verdict: Duh

Chris Chambers - From the abyss, Chris Chambers has been surprisingly good since joining the Chiefs after being cut by the Chargers. Prior to last week's 11-yard stinker, Chambers racked up 17 receptions for 319 yards and 3 touchdowns in four games. I think last week is a lot closer to what Chambers will be doing the rest of the season. If you are stuck, I'd go with Chambers over Evans (for example), but don't in expecting much against the league's 4th best pass defense. Verdict: Sit 'Em

Tight Ends
Shawn Nelson, Sean Ryan - I'm lumping them together because even though they have the same pronunciation for differently spelled named, they will probably put up the same stats for different teams. Verdict: Sit 'Em

Kickers
Rian Lindell - Lindell had two field goals against the Jets last week and continues to be consistently okay as a fantasy kicker. However, okay isn't what you should be looking for. As always, go with a kicker for a better offense. Verdict: Sit 'Em

Ryan Succop - Yeah, I forgot who their kicker was and had to look it up. I suggest you treat him the same way and disregard him totally. Verdict: Sit 'Em

Defense/Special Teams
Buffalo D/ST - The Bills make for a sneaky play this week against a poor Chiefs offense. The Chiefs OL and QB's have been a part of 40 sacks this year, 2nd most in the NFL. However, surprisingly enough, they've only turned it over 15 times thus far. If the Bills can get after Cassel, look for a decent number of sacks and the potential for some turnovers. Maybe they'll even get another pick six in Arrowhead again! Unless you have a quality D/ST with a bad matchup (i.e. Denver against the Colts, Cincinnati against the Vikings, Arizona against the 49ers on the road), you'll probably steer clear of the Bills. Verdict: Sit 'Em

Chiefs D/ST - Even against the Bills, I wouldn't consider starting the Chiefs D/ST. Verdict: Sit 'Em

Sleepers
Buffalo D/ST - See above

Chris Chambers - Even though I could never imagine starting him, Chambers has indeed become the Chiefs go-to receiver. If Cassel can get the passing game going, Chambers could be in line for some good numbers this week.

**********

In what might be the last game any Bills player might have a relevant fantasy performance, let's hope we see some offensive production this week. Another ugly season can't end soon enough, but one more quality performance will at least give us a positive for this team heading into the Holidays! Good luck to any of you (except Brian) who may be taking part in your league's fantasy playoffs this week. Go Bills!

Chiefs WR Chris Chambers Takes Some Heat Off Of QB Matt Cassel

Joel Thorman — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 13:05:28 -0000

More photos » by Ed Zurga - AP

10 days ago: Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Matt Cassel (7) is chased out of bounds by Denver Broncos linebacker D.J. Williams (55) during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 6, 2009 in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Ed Zurga)

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In last week's game, Kansas City Chiefs QB Matt Cassel took some heat for some of his decision making, which contributed to a low, low completion percentage. Some folks point to the Chiefs NFL high 37 drops while others point to Cassel's "happy feet". Whatever the case may be, not all is perfect with the Chiefs receivers, as evidenced by a few things Chris Chambers had to say after yesterday's practice.

Chambers was cognizant of the fact that the receivers haven't been perfect and said they've gotta do a better job of taking the heat off of Cassel. He pointed to a couple of plays that, from our view, puts the blame on Cassel. But, from his view, puts the blame on himself.

"There were a couple of routes that you may have seen him double-clutch on," Chambers continued. "I ran a route that was supposed to be three steps, and I ran five steps. He was ready to throw it, but I wasn’t ready to receive it. So, it looks bad on him."

And another:

"I was short on another route that was 12 yards," Chamber went on to say. "It went over my head, but I was supposed to be at 16-18 yards. It looks like that on TV, but when you break it down on film it’s not like that. You can’t put it all on him."

Josh Looney of KCChiefs.com has a nice perspective on Chambers' words.

"That’s some interesting perspective from a player who hasn’t been here very long and could have very well kept quiet; keeping the focus on the many big contributions he’s made in just a month on the job," Looney writes. "Keep in mind that Chambers is a free agent this offseason and currently auditioning for a job. Those past three paragraphs show exactly what the type of stand-up, team-player that Chambers is."

Indeed it does. It also shows that a few of the things Cassel said yesterday has some meaning to it.

“Well I don’t think anybody that sits there, watches the game and tries to evaluate the game, they don’t know my reads, they don’t know one pattern that I’m supposed to be reading, they don’t know what I’m supposed to be looking at, so for them to sit there and evaluate and say ‘he’s holding the ball too long, or he’s doing this or he’s doing that,’ they really don’t know what’s going on out there other than the fact that they’re looking at the overall product.

"It’s easy for someone to sit back and critique somebody from the sideline, but at the same time, it’s different when I’m being coached to do something specifically, I’m not saying that all the time I’m doing it right or perfectly by any means, but at the same time, that’s kind of how it feels sometimes.”

When I first heard Cassel say this yesterday, I was a little taken aback. But, after hearing what Chambers had to say, it kinda validates Cassel's words.

Who Should the Kansas City Chiefs Cut, Re-sign, and Keep for 2010?

Jon Yoon — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 16:00:17 -0000

by Charlie Riedel - AP

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It's hard not to let my frustrations get the best of me when writing about this year's lowly Chiefs. Rather than vent and curse and scream, I'm going to instead focus my frustrations on a few specific players who I believe are bringing the team down. Some have played their way off the roster and probably out of the NFL; others have played their way out of a starting job; still others have been monumental disappointments.

Let's look at this position by position, starting with the offense.

Quarterback: I've been very patient with Matt Cassel. I understand the situation he's in--his supporting cast isn't great, his receivers are dropping easy passes, and his offensive line has been shaky and inconsistent in pass protection. I get all those things.

That being said, there are a few things that scare me about Cassel. Despite improved protection over the past few games, he is still inconsistent with his downfield throws. In many cases, he's not hitting his receivers in stride and he's making far too many goofy mistakes for a player of his experience level. The excuses are over. His pass protection has gotten better and he is now surrounded by a decent running game. Yet, we're not seeing much improvement from him. All that Cassel has done this season is prove that he's a lousy quarterback for three quarters, but a pretty decent one in the fourth quarter (assuming the Chiefs are still in the game).

I'm not saying Cassel has played his way out of the job, but he certainly hasn't done anything to justify keeping it or securing his place as the QB of the Future. It would be reckless for the Chiefs to enter this offseason without bringing in another strong option at QB. Worst case, Cassel ends up playing really well and the Chiefs can trade their backup away. If the Chiefs don't bring in a strong young option now, it could set the franchise back two or more years.

Because if there is any QB who can push Cassel for a starting job, he's not currently on the roster--Brodie Croyle is too injury prone and Matt Gutierrez is as big of a longshot as you'll find in the NFL. Cassel's poor performance this season has led me to question whether Pioli's loyalties might be clouding his judgment. I like Cassel. I like his work ethic and I want him to succeed, but if he becomes the indisputable starter going into 2010 with no competition, it will really compromise Pioli's no-nonsense, high accountability environment he's building toward. If Pioli is gung-ho about sticking with Cassel next season without bringing in a competitive option, he better be right, or else it could be a decision that haunts him for the rest of his career.

Stays: Matt Cassel (#1 QB), Brodie Croyle (#3 QB)
Bring in: Strong competing #2 QB Option
Dump: Matt Gutierrez

Running back: The good news is that Jamaal Charles is a legit primary back. He's done an incredible job of doing a lot with very little help up front. The play that sticks out in my mind was the toss sweep against the Broncos where he almost made it out to the edge, but couldn't make it there. From what I recall, the guy that got in his way was weakly blocked by Mike Cox. I remember thinking to myself: "Man, if that was Tony Richardson a few years ago, that guy would have been leveled!"

With better blocking up front, Charles has the potential to be a very good "lightning back" who can take on about 15-20 carries a game. He needs to be more careful with the football, but hopefully he can do that with some better awareness and maybe a little bit of strength training. The problem is, Charles is not a primary back in the way LJ was. He shouldn't be a workhorse back nor should he be an all-purpose back. We saw that on Sunday. The Chiefs seemed scared to pound the rock on the goal line. It's because they don't have a "thunder" back to bulldoze forward on short yardage situations. The Chiefs need one of those backs--a big bowling ball that wears out defenses and can muscle a few tough yards on short yardage situations. It would provide more balance to their running game and create a great change of pace for Charles' shifty running style.

Kolby Smith has had a nice little career for the Chiefs, but I wonder if he'll ever play a full season ever again. Outside of Charles and Smith, the options at halfback are not good. Almost everyone in this spot is expendable. However, it's possible the Chiefs keep one of them on the roster, simply because they just have too many needs to fill. At fullback, Mike Cox has effectively played himself off the roster. He doesn't block well, he doesn't run well, and he's been invisible in the passing game. What is it you'd say... he does here? There isn't a shred of a doubt that he will be out of a job in 2010. The Chiefs must bring in a legit Fullback. Must, must, must. And it's not like it's that hard. You can get a top-notch Fullback in the late rounds of the draft.

Keep: Jamaal Charles (#1 HB)
Dump: Mike Cox, Kolby Smith, Tim Castille, Javarris Williams
Possibly retain: Dantrell Savage
Bring in: "Thunder" back. Fullback. Both can be found late in the draft. A "thunder" back might be found on another team's scrap pile

Wide Receiver:

Boy oh boy. You would think that a team coached by a Wide Receivers coach would have receivers that were better at catching the football. You would think that players like Mark Bradley and Bobby Wade, who are hanging on to their roster spot by a very thin thread, would be trying just a little bit harder to compete for their jobs.

Dwayne Bowe is a given, though based on the way he's played this season, I'm not convinced he's a legitimate #1 receiver. Chris Chambers has probably earned his spot on the 2010 roster, although we should prepare for a potential sophomore slump as he had in San Diego. If the Chiefs can find a younger receiver with #1 playmaking capability, they need to break the bank and bring him in (which might mean cutting ties with Chambers). I don't think that will happen, so for now, Chambers is a solid stopgap option. Apart from that, no receiver has played well enough to justify keeping their job.

Bobby Wade, on the whole, has not been terrible. He played like he didn't care to be there against the Broncos, but in most games, he's been a relatively solid slot option. I can't see a situation where Mark Bradley is on this team next season. He has dropped way too many passes in key situations. Lance Long, as it turns out, is not Wes Welker. He's not Ricky Proehl. He's just a guy---pretty good at getting open, but wildly inconsistent at making the catch.

Keep: Dwayne Bowe
Likely keep: Chris Chambers
Bring in: Either a #1 receiver to replace Chambers, or a strong rookie prospect to be groomed to replace Chambers
Very on the bubble: Bobby Wade, Lance Long
Dump: Mark Bradley

Tight End:

Based on the way Haley likes to use Tight Ends, I tend to think he wants a multi-dimensional tight end moreso than a one-dimensional one. He may not want a Tight End who is only stellar at receiving. I don't think he'd mind having a Tight End who was primarily a blocker. Ideally, though, I think he would like a Tight End who was equally good at both.

Leonard Pope has been the sole bright spot at the position and that's not even saying much. Pope's role should really be more situational--a great backup, but not someone I'd like to see as an every-down starter. Sean Ryan does not belong on this roster. I have no idea why he's been here this long in the first place. He can't catch. He's a horrendous blocker. What exactly is his value to the offense? Brad Cottam isn't much better. You can't tell me there aren't better options on the street than these guys.

Keep: Leonard Pope (#2 TE)
Dump: Sean Ryan and Brad Cottam
Bring in: Anyone who isn't named Sean Ryan or Brad Cottam.

Arrowheadlines: Chiefs News 12/6 DT's Day

NJ Chiefs Fan — Sun, 06 Dec 2009 13:38:49 -0000

via i.cdn.turner.com

Game Day!!!! Denver Broncos at Arrowhead today. Wear your 58 jerseys if you got 'em. That number finally gets retired today at halftime. I can't tell you how jealous I am of those of you who will be there today. Now your news.

Alleman plays on the Chiefs’ offensive line. He started a couple of games last month, and then the knee went out. One week, he kind of twisted it. The next, another player ran into it. The week after that, Alleman was out. It was a discouraging way to spend part of his third NFL season, particularly for a player who has gone to unusual lengths to learn about his body and its risks for injury.

Alleman is one of the first NFL players to undergo gene testing, and it had some surprising results. It revealed that Alleman possesses weak Achilles’ tendons, a problem he would’ve never suspected, and he now devotes extra workout time to strengthen them.

Science let him in on a secret — although it didn’t tell him everything.

Chiefs’ Alleman looks to science for an edge from KC Star

The Chiefs placed running back Kolby Smith on injured reserve Saturday and promoted running back Javarris Williams from the practice squad to the 53-man roster.
Williams, 5 feet 10 and 223 pounds, was the Chiefs’ seventh-round pick in this year’s draft. Williams, out of Tennessee State, has not played in an NFL game.

Chiefs put Kolby Smith on IR from KC Star

Almost a decade since the last time Hall of Fame linebacker Derrick Thomas stepped on the field for the Kansas City Chiefs, his spirit will undoubtedly be in attendance at Arrowhead Stadium on Sunday against the Denver Broncos.
Thomas, whose number 58 will be retired by the Chiefs on Sunday, sacked Broncos' quarterback John Elway more than any other quarterback during his 11-year career in Kansas City. Against no other opponent would it be more appropriate for the Chiefs to retire Thomas's number.

Chiefs Derrick Thomas Makes Final Appearance Against Broncos on Sunday from Bleacher Report

Bottom line

The Chiefs are overmatched against a team with a lot of offensive weapons, as they showed in last week’s blowout loss to the Chargers. The Broncos may not be as stocked as San Diego, but between Marshall, Moreno and Buckhalter, they still qualify as an offensive team far too deep for the Chiefs to handle. Unless the Chiefs can dominate on special teams or win the turnover battle by a large margin, look for the Broncos to pull away eventually. Prediction: Broncos 30, Chiefs 17

Chiefs-Broncos scouting report from KC Star

The Chiefs delighted a chilled Thanksgiving Day crowd at Municipal Stadium on Nov. 27, 1969, by scoring on offense, defense and on one of the most unusual special-teams plays imaginable.

Linebacker Bobby Bell fielded Denver kicker Bobby Howfield’s onside kick in the final minute and returned it 53 yards for a touchdown, putting the finishing touches on a 31-17 victory in front of a crowd of 48,773.

Chiefs flashback | Week 12 of the Super Bowl IV season from KC Star

The Denver Broncos and Kansas City Chiefs, who meet Sunday, each have a player who has flourished despite joining the team in midseason.

Chris Chambers was cut by the San Diego Chargers on Nov. 2, claimed by the Chiefs and almost immediately became their No. 1 receiver. The Broncos needed a new third cornerback for their nickel defense in early November and signed veteran Ty Law, who had been out of football all year.

The NFL season was at full speed, and those players had to catch up quickly.

"They’ve done it in training camp; they’ve had the books," Law said. "If they see something they say, ‘This is familiar, we saw this in Week 3’ or whatever. For me, everything is new."

Midseason acquisitions have difficult challenges in NFL from The Colorado Springs Gazette

The socks have been an unexpected hit for the Broncos and the N.F.L., which is near the end of its season-long 50th-anniversary celebration of the American Football League. The original eight teams — the Buffalo Bills, the Denver Broncos, the Los Angeles Chargers (now the San Diego Chargers), the Boston Patriots (the New England Patriots), the Oakland Raiders, the Houston Oilers (the Tennessee Titans), the Dallas Texans (the Kansas City Chiefs) and the New York Titans (the Jets) — have been featured in legacy games that have included vintage uniforms.

The last of these 16 matchups will be Sunday when the Patriots play the Miami Dolphins, who joined the A.F.L. in 1966. The Cincinnati Bengals became the 10th team in 1968. The commemoration of the A.F.L. has provided a much-needed lift for the teams and the league, which were looking for ways to offset the effects of the recession on merchandise sales. More than two dozen licensees have been making about 100 A.F.L.-related products, which have produced tens of millions of dollars in sales, said Leo Kane, the N.F.L.’s vice president for consumer products.

For a League of the Past, the Uniforms Live On from The New York Times

NFL great Jan Stenerud, who has adopted Colorado Springs as his hometown, is hooked on what he calls "America’s game."

"I think American football is the greatest team sport ever invented," he said.

Which leads us to this question:

What about soccer?

Stenerud, 67, hails from Norway, where he played futbol, or soccer, every day in the summer. He knows the game. He once loved the game.

Ramsey: Stenerud embraces football, leaving soccer behind from Colorado Springs Gazette

Player Tweets

almighty31 all this time. i get a citation and she gets off. she dont even have brake lights.

MrKolbySmith what's good with you?@H0llyHawK

almighty31 how bout them tide. u mighty quiet @themswhite

studie32 i pray that it is

studie32 i rejoice that it is.

Media and Fans

ArrowheadPride Chiefs fans, send us your tailgating pictures tomorrow and we will post 'em. #chiefs

JoshLooney Chiefs Big 12 championship predictions: Demorrio Williams - NEB by 7; Derrick Johnson - Tex by 21; Jamaal Charles - remember Tex/CU? (70-3)

SI_PeterKing Imagine 33 days betw AFC+NFC title games and Super Bowl, as in college with nat'l title game. SB would be Feb. 26--in the middle of combine.

adamcbest: Chiefs need to come and get Suh! Hit on our last Husker D-lineman (Neil Smith). #Suh

webby37: Watching the #Chiefs / #Broncos 1994 MNF classic on the NFL Network... Remember hiding from the folks to stay up and watch the end—Eff Elway

bemonteer: Fired up for the Chiefs and Broncos. Go Chiefs!!!

jwgochiefs1: Hope the chiefs beat the broncos ass today!!!!

tslfan20: hopefully i don't turn into an icicle watching the chiefs lose to the broncos... that would be no bueno

bandfrag: Hey Chiefs fans, remember to wear your #58 DT jerseys tomorrow no matter where you are. The mojo will be needed. Go Chiefs!!!

mattmishler: Heading to KC for the Broncos and Chiefs game!

CreativePetrol: Up early prepping for the big tailgate. Let's get a win, #Chiefs!

MHR Chalk Talk - The Broncos at the Chiefs in '09

Steve Nichols — Fri, 04 Dec 2009 18:30:13 -0000

More photos » by Jack Dempsey - AP

The Denver Broncos get their mojo back. Yeah Baby yeah! (AP Photo/Jack Dempsey)

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After getting off to a great 6-0 start, the Broncos lost their mojo and dropped 4 games, including a costly game to rival San Diego. On Thanksgiving night, the Broncos did exactly what they needed to do; not only to beat the New York Giants, but to set the tone for how to play the season out.

I'd like to think the Broncos took a page from MHR Chalk Talk last week, and made a decision to play more physical ball while letting the precision wait a little longer. I'm certain that Coach McDaniels has better things to do than to listen to advice from folks outside of his coaching circle, but he did place an emphaisis on more physical ball for the Giants game. It not only worked, but it worked out better than our game plans for the first 6 victories. Why? Because we played a dominating style of football instead of a finesse style, and it worked to a tee.

There's nothing wrong with finesse. But a team needs time to learn a new system before it can take the step to execute more complex plays. Right now, Denver needs to execute the basics better than the bad guys, and punch other teams in the gut. That is just what Denver did, and what they need to do moving forward.

Let's look at the keys to the game for last week.

First, I wrote that the OL needed to protect Kyle Orton. The Giants have always been a team that want to shut down the passing game with pressure from the front more than relying on elite coverage from defensive backs. Not only did the OL did a good job of keeping Orton clean, they opened up running lanes for the Denver offense.

The second key for Denver was to run the ball more, and to do so effectively. A good running game takes pressure of the QB, controls the clock, and cuts down on turnovers. It is the prime key for Denver for the rest of the season. When Denver runs the ball well, they win games. When opponents can make Denver one dimensional, Denver will struggle. Denver did this.

Last, Denver needed a mistake free game. Denver had to settle for two FGs instead of TDs on their first two drives because of penalties, and this led to a now infamous, profanity laden conference on the sidelines. But two things happened at that point. First, Denver got the focus they needed. Second, Denver was playing "domineering" football to such an extent that they left 8 points on the field in those two drives and it didn't matter. Domineering football is just what this team needs.

For the Giants, all they really had to do to win this game was to win in the trenches. Denver's offensive and defensive lines pushed the Giants all over the field. Denver took that key away right away.

Next, the Giants needed to keep Denver from the ealry lead. But from the start of the game, it was clear that Denver wasn't going to settle for a war of field position and winning a close game. Denver took the early lead.

Finally, I wrote that the Giants needed to run the ball on Denver for match-up reasons. Denver's run defense was spectacular. Denver made it look as if the Giants could do nothing right.

My point is that Denver didn't win this game with precision execution of flashy sreen plays, nor with a great amount of trickery on the defense. Denver out executed opponents by being more physical. We didn't play "keep the game close" careful football, we played to dominate, intimidate, and crush. Our guys had it in them, and they proved it. Both our players and our head coach are emotional beings, and sometimes it is ok to play a little more with emotional intensity than cold Xs and Os.

The Chiefs

Now what about the Chiefs? This is a game Denver should dominate. The Chiefs are having a rough season so far in almost any measurement. First, the bad news for the Chiefs.

The Chiefs are 26th in scoring, 30th in yards, 22nd in rushing, and 26th in passing. The number one reason (in my opinion) for the poor offensive perfomance of this team is the offensive line. Gone are the stars of yesteryear's Chiefs OL. The OL can't protect QB Matt Cassel, and they allow him to be sacked on a regular basis. in fact, they botched two snaps to the QB in their last game, missing the QB in the shotgun formation (where the QB is further back from the line).

On defense, things aren't any better. KC is 28th in points allowed, 30th in yards allowed, 27th in stopping the run, and 30th in stopping the pass.

In other words, KC is in the bottom 10 teams in every vital stat, and in the bottom seven teams in 7 out of those 8 stats. Overall, the Chiefs are ranked 26th in the League based on wins and tie-break.

Do the Chiefs have any good news going into this game? They do, and if you don't believe me, you can drop the ball like the Pittsburgh Steelers did in their loss to the Chiefs two games ago.

First, the Chiefs have a terrific RB in Jamaal Charles. He has shown unreal speed, and is a definate threat when he gets to the edges. Denver could challenge the edges with a traditional 3-4 defense, but in the 5-2 look the OLB/DEs are more likely to be plugging gaps than containing the outside. Expect Denver to respect Jammal by either zoning an OLB wide or placing a LB in man coverage. Both safeties will be watching for wide runs as well.

Jamaal is averaging over 5 yards a carry (as he did last year), and now that he is the starter (with Larry Johnson booted from the team), the Chief's may start buidling an offense around him down the road. Did I mention that Jamaal also has great hands and can catch what is thrown his way? Jamaal 's weakspot (according to many) is that he may be fumble prone. I don't really know if this is fair. At 22 years of age, Jamaal has fumbled the ball twice this year (at key moments), but has also touched the ball 78 times rushing and 26 times receiving. He is only in his second year too. I don't think protecting the ball is as bad as the media has made the issue out to be.

The other bright spot for the offense is Chris Chambers at WR. Cassel may not get protection from his line, and his weapons may not have a lot of depth, but Chris Chambers is his number one target and Chambers seems to have a good chemistry with the QB. These are the two players I respect the most on the Chiefs offense, and I fully expect that Denver will work on countering these two.

And then there is the "curse". Denver can't seem to win in KC in December. I'm not a superstitous guy, but the curse shouldn't be a factor for some very logical reasons. First, the two teams aren't the same teams they were in past years. In fact, not even last year. Both teams feature new head coaches, new offensive and defensive coordinators, new managers, and new QBs. In fact, looking over the Chiefs roster, I was surprised by how many names were different from just last year.

If Denver is going to lose this game, it will be because they take it for granted. KC is fully capable of keeping a game close, then gong for the win at the end. Denver needs to avoid falling into the trap that Pittsburgh did, and needs to dominate from the start.

Keys to the Game

Denver

Denver needs to guard against Jamaal Charles. Yes, he can average over 5 yards a carry. Yes, he can catch out of the backfield. And yes, he is a return threat in special teams. He can also go down field for deeps passes (he beat Cromartie for a deep pass last week). But he is light at 5-11, 199 LBs. With the other RBs on the team limited or out of practice, Jamaal may take a lot of hits. Denver needs to contain Jamaal, and they need to hit him any chance that they get.
Another way to deal with Jamaal is to get an early lead and force the Chiefs to throw. I'll take Champ Bailey and Andre' Goodman over Chris Chambers anyday.
Run the ball. This takes the Chiefs crowd out of the game and keeps Jamaal Charles off the field. The Chiefs don't have a fast LB corps, so sprinkling in some screens and shovel passes to the edges may spread the defense wide to allow later shots at the interior.

Kansas City

Do whatever it takes to protect your QB. Short, quick passes would be good (and would negate the big plays that Denver's secondary can make). Running the ball with Jammal would be good too. The depth at WR can't match the Denver depth at CB, so keep formations down to 1 or 2 receivers and add protection with TEs and a FB.
While Jamaal needs to be a factor, try rotating the runs. Clearly, I think this kid is the weapon that KC needs, but if he is overused, he's going to get hurt. If he is kept fresh, he may get enough big plays to keep the game close.
Come into the game fired up, and fire up the fans. I read an article this week (at NFL.com) that mentioned that KC hasn't been playing with a lot of fire. This happened to Denver, and Brian Dawkins hosted a players-only meeting to straighten things out. It worked. But the fans need to be fired up too. Denver makes mistakes and gets penalties, and isn't fully on the same page on offense at times. Loud crowd noise at the right moment should help the KC defense. Players ought to encourage the fans to get loud, and should do a little chest thumping when a play goes well for KC. Arrowhead hasn't been kind to Denver, and the fans in KC should keep it that way.

Conclusion

Before the season, I wrote that I expected the Raiders to stay in the basement, the Chiefs and Brancos to improve slightly, and the Chargers to lose a little luster. The Raiders are the same team that they have been for years, unable to approach even .500, while the Chargers remain contenders, but don't stand out in the Conference.

However, while the Broncos have improved from last year, the Chiefs are having a hard time keeping up. In fact, they are only one spot ahead of the Raiders in the League rankings. Denver had at least as many changes as the Chiefs did, so what is the problem?

I agree with our friends at Arrowhead Pride. Too many good players are gone (including a key defensive lineman, two great offensive linemen, and what should be a future HOF TE), and too few good players have stepped in. Age remains an issue as well. The team needs an injection of youth, and a long term, off-season game plan to start building up. The team needs a combination of good FA moves or trades (getting Chambers from SD was a good move in my opinion), as well as using their position in the draft to get more players that can contribute over time.

I mean no disrespect to the Chiefs fans when I write that I have a hard time seeing the Broncos dropping this game. However, Denver seems to get surprised year after year in KC, so KC has some hope.

My hope is that Denver doesn't just win this game, but makes another statement like they did last week against the Giants. Denver must win the "easy" games against KC and Oak (2 against KC), and a win against PHI would go a long ways. INDY still looks like a bridge too far. We also need to pull for all of SD's opponents from here on out.

A loss on Sunday would put a serious crimp in the Broncos playoff hopes (Denver is top wildcard at this point). A win keeps a division playoff spot in sight. Every game from here on out is a big game. I think Denver can measure up.

~~~

(By the way, for those attending the game: There used to be a great place to eat called Union Station in KC. It was the sight of a major gangland massacre back in days of Machine Gun Kelly, Frank Nitti and Baby Face Nelson. If the place is still there, they used to have a seafood buffet that included everything from whole lobster to smoked eel, oysters, and lox. Not far away was a Japanese place called The Hibachi. If they are still there, you can't go wrong with either one. Not far from the stadium, in Independence, is a place called Stephenson's. Presidents have eaten there with good reason, and it is worth a visit as well. You used to get free samples of apple cider there, and the food is awesome. Perhaps a KC fan can chime in to tell us if those places are still around).

Poll

Denver will....

Chiefs To Make a Run at Bringing Chambers Back?

Joel Thorman — Thu, 03 Dec 2009 17:00:58 -0000

More photos » by Charlie Riedel - AP

24 days ago: Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Chris Chambers (11) gets past Pittsburgh Steelers safety Ryan Clark (25) to run for 61 yards, setting up a game-winning field goal during overtime of an NFL football game Sunday, Nov. 22, 2009, in Kansas City, Mo. The Chiefs won the game 27-24. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)

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Bill Williamson of ESPN.com was asked whether he thinks the Kansas City Chiefs would try to bring back Chris Chambers after the season.

As many of you know, Chambers is in the last year of his contract. According to NFLPA records, he's making $4.55 million in base salary this season. He made over $5 million in base salary last season.

Williamson said he expects the Chiefs to be in the mix for his services next season, too.

"They have to be paying attention to Chambers, 31, who still appears to have gas left in the tank," Williamson writes. "Still, expect the Chiefs to make a big run to keep Chambers. He has fit in great and he has given the team new life. He is valuable to Kansas City. So, they will surely try to keep him."

Chambers' age should certainly be a concern. The success of many receivers, like Chambers, is predicated on speed. And things like speed usually don't get better with age.

But with his impressive performance with the Chiefs so far, there will definitely be interest in Chambers on the open market following the season. This is probably the last chance he's got for a big contract and I imagine he'll want to take advantage of it.

There could be some concern, like there is with many players in similar situations, that his production will drop off once he doesn't have the incentive to drive himself as hard everyday. Will that happen with Chambers? I have no idea.

But, like Williamson, I do expect the Chiefs to make a run at Chambers.

It's hard for me to imagine that the Chiefs will land his services again next year, though. Chiefs GM Scott Pioli generally doesn't overpay for players, especially traditionally low impact positions like receiver, and the free agent market will be blossoming for Chambers, so the Chiefs will have plenty of competition for his services I think.

Usually regarded as a negative, Chambers' age could benefit the Chiefs possibly scaring off other teams who might be interested.