See you in 2015, Kansas City Chiefs

Dec 21, 2014; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid stands on the sidelines against the Pittsburgh Steelers during the second half at Heinz Field. The Steelers won the game, 20-12. Mandatory Credit: Jason Bridge-USA TODAY Sports

Now before everyone comes out of the woodwork spouting all sorts of negative comments about the title, let me explain.

While there is a slim chance the 2014 Chiefs make it into the postseason, a better statement would be that they’re playing for the draft pick. Now, am I saying they should lose versus the San Diego Chargers? No. But, more than likely, the Chiefs will be sitting at home when the postseason arrives.

Now let me say, I think it is important for the Chiefs to finish the season on a high note, and nothing would be better than playing potential spoiler to the division rival. Finishing the season at 8-8 gives the Chiefs a marginal sense of hope. It is a positive in that despite all that happened with injuries and starting out the season 0-2, the Chiefs still fought back against the odds. Finishing the year at .500 will be a testament to the team and give a little momentum heading into the offseason, if they do not make the playoffs.

This year has not been what the Chiefs were expecting. Coming off such a successful year, the hopes were high for the Chiefs as they looked forward to 2014. However, injuries and lack of offensive production has been the Achilles heel for the Chiefs all season. A serious deep threat in the receiving game has also held them back throughout 2014. Running back Jamaal Charles has been plagued with various injuries and may be the reason why head coach Andy Reid has not kept feeding him the ball. There has been some great production from tight end Travis Kelce, but he has not had success holding onto the ball at times. The offense will need some major upgrades at wide receiver and offensive line if the Chiefs want to be successful in 2015

Dec 21, 2014; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Martavis Bryant (10) runs after a pass reception as Kansas City Chiefs outside linebacker Tamba Hali (91) pursues during the first quarter at Heinz Field. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

The defense for the Chiefs has been better in holding off the explosive big play and have not yet allowed a 300-yard passer. But the run defense has been the worst in the league, allowing a staggering four-plus yards per carry. As the Chiefs head into the offseason, they will need to address the holes in the Chiefs defense. Hopefully Derrick Johnson and Mike DeVito can come back and help in defending against the run in 2015. The Chiefs should be able to find some decent players in the free-agent market and especially in the draft.

Speaking of, draft preparation will start sooner than later for the Chiefs. There are several areas that will need to be addressed, but they, without a doubt, need to select a receiver. Dwayne Bowe has been in a two-year slump, and the Chiefs do have some talent in undrafted rookie Albert Wilson and veteran Jason Avant, but it is simply not enough in a pass-driven NFL. Kansas City also need some major help along the offensive line. At times, Alex Smith has had great protection, and other times he has been cloud-watching while on his back. The Chiefs front five will need some upgrades if the team hopes to protect Smith in 2015.

All in all, this season has been better than expected. Yes, the Chiefs might not make it to the playoffs, and this season can be looked upon as bad. However, they have made the most of the second season under Andy Reid and, if all the pieces are in place, should look to improve in 2015.

So finally, thank you Kansas City Chiefs, this has been crazy ride, and I can’t wait to see how it ends!

Thanks for reading!

Go Chiefs!!!