©Denny Medley-US PRESSWIRE

Last week I observed that although Kansas City didn’t lead New Orleans until overtime, they enjoyed a substantial advantage in yardage gained. In fact, the one thing the Chiefs have demonstrated week in and week out is that they can gain yards. Look at the stats through the first four weeks:

Against Atlanta, the Chiefs lost 24-42 but outgained the Falcons 393-376. At Buffalo, the Chiefs lost 17-35 but outgained the Bills 422-379. As previously noted, the 27-24 win in the Superdome ended with Kansas City holding a 510-288 advantage in yards. Finally, on Sunday the Chiefs lost a miserable game to the Chargers by 37-20, yet edged San Diego out 353-293.

What does it all mean? Essentially, that Kansas City needs to offer Bill Snyder $10 million plus an additional $10 million to whatever youth mentoring foundation he desires in exchange for teaching professional athletes the same things his college kids already know: how to play special teams and protect the football. Short of this, somebody else needs to come teach the Chiefs how to play special teams and protect the damn football. Oh, and how to create turnovers too.

On the special teams front, the return game was once again anemic on Sunday. Cyrus Gray had a nice 33 yard return and the Chiefs actually averaged 27.3 yards on kickoffs this weekend, but the team has yet to turn a truly exciting play that puts the offense in position to score with a short field. Punt returns remain pathetic, and Javier Arenas has got to get some better blocking.

The turnover issue is past painful, and three lost fumbles and three interceptions against the Chargers piled on to an already large number of giveaways. On the other side of the football, the Chiefs got an interception. This brings their takeaways to two on the season. Two. That’s .5 per game. How do you lose when you outgain your opponent? By going -5 in net turnovers forced on the day. There aren’t enough fingers to point out everyone at fault here.

Finally, this team has to execute in the red zone. Jamaal Charles and Ryan Succop were co-heroes last week, but they shouldn’t have been. I don’t want to see Ryan Succop put up major points because he has to kick six field goals; he needs to score points because he’s kicking PATs. (Note: this wasn’t an issue Sunday, as Kansas City either found the end zone or got stopped before even crossing midfield on every possession save the final.)

The rough thing is, the Chiefs can’t merely improve one of these and hope to win more. The scores they’re posting aren’t just losses, they’re blowouts. This team will not be successful if it can’t at least make the +/- on turnovers a net zero. Yes, Matt Cassel needs to stop gift wrapping balls to the opposition, but Brandon Flowers needs to step up and catch a couple of his own. I’m not happy the running backs drop the football like its hot, but DJ needs to knock out a couple fumbles himself for someone to pounce on. How did the Chargers score on a five yard drive? Because Charles was stripped of the ball and San Diego recovered it at the five yard line. There also has to be at least one decent return every game so that the offense isn’t expected to drive 80 yards if it wants a touchdown. I still believe this team is good enough to recover and have a successful season, but it needs to rectify these issues to stop being so bad.

Derick E. Hingle-US PRESSWIRE

Going into this weekend, I was down on the Chiefs. Only two weeks into the season I was already giving up hope, convinced that the offensive and defensive lines were too miserable to give the team a chance at winning. It stunk being in an 0-2 hole, but we now know the season isn’t lost. There’s no reason the Chiefs can’t come back and make a playoff appearance. So here are the individuals/units I owe apologies for writing off and accusing of ruining the season:

To both sets of linemen: I feel like I should apologize for saying you’re awful when you clearly weren’t this week (although you did deserve it before). Ryan Lilja, you demonstrated the toughness I appreciate in battling through back issues to play on Sunday. Everyone pulled together to provide Matt Cassel the protection he needed, even when center Rodney Hudson went down with a knee injury. In fact, the hurting Lilja moved over to take over center duties while rookie Jeff Allen came in at guard. Three sacks and a fumble by Cassel isn’t a good stat line, but the overall play was great on almost every snap. It was the type of protection Cassel needs to stay healthy this year.

And to the pash rush, you made this game work. Drew Brees was flustered all night long. His ability to move around in the pocket to buy time and create plays was squashed by getting in Brees’s face all night long. Brees ended the night scared and unable to find receivers. Stellar job by both Crennel and the D-line.

To Romeo Crennel: I apologize for calling you spineless last week. You went for it on fourth down in overtime. In my opinion, it was an easy call; I’d rather have control of the ball than hand it over to Drew Brees. You still made the call. Kudos.

To Ryan Succop: You went 6-of-6 and nailed the game winner in a hostile environment. I once proclaimed that you looked to be losing your form and was afraid you weren’t able to bring that type of consistency anymore. Then you did.

To Jamaal Charles: I was wrong to question you last week. I blame the line’s inability to create any creases for you to run, but I still acknowledge my mistake. You remain Jamaal Charles, the most dangerous running back in the NFL.

To my carpetbagging high school “friend” who moved to New Orleans and decided to become a Saints fan: I make no apologies for any messages I may have sent you during halftime. I may have been frustrated and mildly out of line, but you shouldn’t post things about supporting the Saints on Facebook.

To Matt Cassel: I offer nothing. I was always in Camp Cassel, and you were just good enough to give achieve victory. You’re still not an elite talent capable of winning games on your own.

To the receivers: I apologize for not criticizing you more. I’ve always described this group as electrifying. It remains physically electrifying. However, it also needs to learn to hold on to the damn ball. Dwayne Bowe, please don’t expect this franchise to pay you top dollar unless you’re prepared to make the the catches top dollar receivers make.

Things to note:

• The Chiefs still have not led during the regular season this year.
• The Chiefs finally created a turnover when Stanford Routt intercepted Brees on an underthrown ball (caused because Brees was under pressure!). Only forcing one turnover in three games? This team will never achieve anything unless it starts doing better in the turnover battle.
• You may have missed it, but the Chiefs hammered the Saints in total yardage – 510 to 288. How does a team gain so many more yards but need overtime to squeak out a victory? Turnovers and special teams. The return game remains impotent, and, as was established before, one interception and no fumble recoveries. San Diego and Baltimore are up next – hoping to outgain them by over 220 yards is a cute goal, but can’t be expected. These issues must be rectified if Kansas City is to make it back to .500.
• Go Chiefs.

Mandatory Credit: Kevin Hoffman-US PRESSWIRE

I wake up on an old couch, mouth dry, head slightly pounding, and a faint smell of stale beer in the air. Am I in college? No, it’s worse– I’m lying in the den of the enemy.

I relocated to Albany, NY in 2010 and have made friends with a faction of Bills fans I’ve grown to deeply respect. Naturally, we all bought tickets for last Sunday’s game. And while a beverage or two was consumed the night before, the principal reason for the headache is that the house I’m in is literally shaking from bass as my Bills friends jump up and down to what has to be the most godawful collection of music ever compiled–the Nick Mendola ‘Let’s Go Bills’ raps. (If you’re not familiar with Mendola’s work, you can torture your eardrums here.)

Following some groaning and jawing, we pack into a couple vans and head out to the stadium for pregame festivities. Similar to some other teams, the Buffalo Bills actually play away from their namesake city in Orchard Park, NY. The traffic lines are pleasantly quick and we are parked and grilling in short order. I use the word ‘grilling’ loosely here, as Buffalo’s conception of tailgating falls slightly short of Kansas City’s standards. Below you will find me saddened by a “Buffalo tailgate.”

You’ll also notice the scenery; rather than park in the stadium, most fans seek out an empty lot to park their car and walk to the stadium. We shared the gravel lot of a rundown motel with 30 other cars. While money is saved on parking, we literally traversed a thicket of woods to reach Ralph Wilson Stadium.

Upon entering the stadium each fan is handed a white towel to wave. I turn to a fellow Chiefs fan and exclaim we should take the towels, as we need something to wipe *** ***** with. I share a good-hearted laugh with him and his wife, we congratulate each other on the Chiefs impending victory, high-five, and go our separate ways. A few minutes later I’m settled in with my 50 yard line seats. Granted, they’re 50 yard line in the nose bleed section seats, but securing six affordable yet adjacent tickets is no small feat. The one thing I notice as the clock ticks down is the lack of rowdiness in the stands. This remains a fact during the entire game. Except for a few critical third downs, Bills fans fail to really make that much noise and prefer to sit on their aluminum bleachers than interact with the game. At least Kansas City still has that going for it.

As with most home openers, the Air Force conducts an impressive flyover. The crowd is also entreated to two parachutists. The first merely carries a Bills flag, but the second SEAL to jump is dangling a large American flag and is able to circle the stadium for almost the entire national anthem before coming to the ground. Awesome stuff.

I’m delaying discussion of the game itself right now, because what comes next hurts to relive. I believe the Chiefs could have won this game, even if they got outplayed, and point to a few key plays the game hinged on. The first came three minutes into the game when Kansas City was faced with a 4^th-and-3 at the Buffalo 46. Crennel must have heard me from all the way up in row 301 because after screaming for him to “take the ******* **** *** ** **** ******,” the offense comes back out onto the field to go for it. Unfortunately, the team takes too much time to get set up, takes a delay of game penalty, and the Chiefs punt on 4^th-and-8. I can already tell this will be one of those flecks in time when I miss Todd Haley. The Chiefs ran around with indecision and confusion not knowing whether the punt team should be on the field. Are you kidding me? I never want to see my team punt on 4th and short inside the opponent’s territory. With Haley, you know the offense would’ve been ready to stay on the field rather than running around trying to figure out what to do (although the Chiefs may have still incurred a delay of game penalty because the play call couldn’t get relayed onto the field under Haley). I lay this at the feet of Crennel. I’m also frustrated that a timeout wasn’t called. I’m willing to burn a time out to keep possession of the football. This was poor execution on both a strategic and tactical level.

True exasperation set in later in the game when Peyton Hillis fumbled at the one yard line. Yes, Matt Cassel was sacked midway through the second quarter and fumbled the ball away. That sucked, but it’s going to happen again at some point. I don’t care how good the line is, expect your quarterback to go down once or twice during the game. This hit is likely to come when the quarterback is unprotected and vulnerable, increasing the likelihood of fumbling the football. The fumble on the one yard line shouldn’t have happened. It caused Kansas City to spend halftime down 21-0 and demoralized.

One other play brought me physical pain, and it falls solely on the shoulders of the coaching staff. In fact, it bears a striking resemblance to the first point of anguish. At the beginning of the fourth quarter the Bills had just returned a punt for a touchdown to go up 28-3, and the Chiefs were faced with 4^th-and-14 on the Buffalo 34. To those of you who didn’t catch the game and/or misread that, the Chiefs had the ball 34 yards from the end zone while down 28-3 with 15 minutes to come back. There is no reason to willingly give the other team the ball. So the team trots out Dustin Colquitt to pooch a little 31 yard punt. Don’t expect to win with a defeatist attitude.

At this point I lose all hope and submit to the swarming sea of Bills fans. One man offers me a “Kansas City Chefs” shirt which I begrudgingly don in acknowledgment of defeat. Another fan with whom I’d traded sharpened barbs earlier in the game offers me a fittingly bitter beer. In exchange, I vocalize my respect for their linemen. Both sides. The five sacks Buffalo recorded were not because Cassel indecisively stood around in the pocket all day-–the Chiefs failed to provide adequate pass protection. Even worse was the run defense. The Bills are not stacked with offensive playmakers and it was easy to predict play calling slanted towards the ground game. Yet C.J. Spiller averaged 8.2 yards per carry. The defensive line wasn’t pushed around. It was bullied.

In sum: I (tentatively) remain in camp Cassel. I’m putting Crennel on a short lease and encouraging him to grow a spine. And I remain suspicious of the front three on defense. I guess it could’ve been worse–last year I bought my dad tickets to the Jets game, and we sat there and watched the Kansas City offense net seven yards in the first half. At least we sniffed the end zone the first half of this game, it’s just, you know, that turnover thing.

Mandatory Credit: John Rieger-US PRESSWIRE

Well-rounded. That was supposed to be the perfect description of the Chiefs. The offense could throw deep to Dwayne Bowe, quick release to Dexter McCluster, pound it up the middle with Peyton Hillis, and sprint around end with Jamaal Charles. The defense was designed to hit quarterbacks hard with its outside linebackers, lock down on receivers with Brandon Flowers and Stanford Routt, stuff anything up the middle with Derrick Johnson, and cover any gaps with Eric Berry. And while the offense has enough weapons to compensate for injuries (or suspensions), it’s apparent the defense doesn’t. When backup pieces are plugged in, this well-rounded battleship begins leaking like a sieve. And after the first 15 minutes it was obvious to anyone watching that the deep ball is where some major spot welding is needed. Immediately. The secondary has become my primary concern.

Up 34-17 with 60 seconds left in the 3rd quarter, I remarked, “damn – they’re still throwing.” At this stage in the game, there was no thought given to running down the clock a bit. Atlanta still respected Kansas City’s offense enough to pursue the strategy most likely to score points, regardless of the time implications. That was slinging the ball downfield. With 10:44 left in the 4th quarter, the Falcons kicked a field goal to go up 40-17. At this point they had attempted 31 passes with 18 rushes. Factor in that three runs were QB scrambles, and the ratio becomes 34 called passes to 15 runs. The Falcons had good running backs, but zero respect for Kansas City’s coverage units. Additionally, the Falcons have a shifty beast in Jacquizz Rodgers; yet when they did run, it was almost completely between the tackles with the bigger Michael Turner. Assuming the Falcons did their due diligence in scouting, the coaching staff thought they could exploit Dontari Poe but not the outside linebackers. This proved incorrect, as they were held to 3.7 yards/rush. This drops to just under 3 yards/rush once you discount QB scrambles. That’s some good to complement the bad and ugly.

Derrick Johnson and Jacques Reeves were burned the most on throws. I don’t worry about DJ’s poor performance in coverage. Although Antonio Gates may give him a couple fits, he should only get faster through the season as the ankle sprain heals. I’ve been down on the depth in the secondary all summer, and Reeves did nothing to assuage these concerns. ESPN reported last week that Flowers looked ready to play in the opener, and I’m betting on his return this Sunday. Crennel isn’t releasing any information on Kendrick Lewis, and I’m not getting my hopes up for his return. However, with Tamba Hali creating pressure in the backfield and Flowers (hopefully) providing the coverage Reeves obviously couldn’t, a rematch with the Falcons would not result in the same outcome.

So where does that leave the team going forward? Minus the season opener last year, the Bills were the Chiefs of the East – a potential playoff team whose overwhelming injury situation (in their case, particularly the offensive line) paved the way to a losing season. Similar to the Chiefs, the Bills have already been hit with injuries again. Primary running back Fred Jackson and #2 wide receiver David Nelson are out. So what game plan will the Bills bring? Harvard Fitzpatrick tossing to Stevie Johnson and Scott Chandler doesn’t compare with Matt Ryan harnessing his three headed monster of Julio Jones, Tony Gonzalez, and Roddy White. I consider Johnson more jackass than major threat, Chandler a mediocre starting tight end, and know Fitzpatrick doesn’t have the arm of Matt Ryan. Anticipate a lot of work from C.J. Spiller, who offers the same game-breaking ability as Jacquizz Rodgers but not a lot of bulk. This portends an entirely different game plan that plays in Kansas City’s strengths – anticipate at least one screen blown up by Berry. There’s no way last year’s egg is repeated in the decrepit structure Buffalo fans call a stadium. Kansas City will continue putting up points, and the defensive match up provides all the advantages missing from the first game. Don’t expect to see the Chiefs dip below .500 again.

A few other observations from Sunday’s game:

It sounded like the fans were loud – real loud. On consecutive first quarter plays, an audible by Ryan almost got a delay of game when he couldn’t communicate because of the noise, and Atlanta was tagged with a false start as the clock almost ran down again. You know how Peyton Manning calls his plays after walking up to the line of scrimmage? Yeah, I’m excited for the Donkeys to visit Arrowhead too.

Turner had 1340 yards last year and 32 yards last Sunday. Matt Ryan had the team’s longest run (11 yards). More statistics demonstrating how effective Kansas City was in bottling up the run.

The camera caught Daboll giggling after the designed quarterback draw for Cassell that resulted in a touchdown. Matt had a couple good runs. If only we had a decent running back to handle that load instead…

Dexter McCluster recorded the best tackle in the NFL, flying through the air to grab a defender’s ankles as he was standing up to return an interception.

Lost amid the lopsided score were the facts Kansas City was better at converting third downs and outgained the Falcons in yardage. Four plays – the three turnovers and a 77-yard Rodgers kick return – were what decided the game.

Tony Gonzalez made a point to run down the ball he caught for a touchdown after dunking it. I don’t think the dunk was in poor taste, and it’s obvious that ball meant a lot to him. Also, I predicted we’d see him dunk in the Super Bowl this year, and I’m not backing off that assertion.

I’m starting to see why Kansas City was trying out another kicker this summer.

Should Devon Wylie be the return man? Even if Javier Arenas is better, the depth at secondary makes me feel more comfortable with a wide receiver waiting deep to receive just in case. And watching him through the preseason plus this game, I’m not convinced he’s better. Can McCluster return kicks too?

It’s good to see passion, but the pushing and jawing definitely went overboard at the end of several special teams plays, and only got worse towards the end. Dirty Birds.

I’ll be in Buffalo for the game this weekend. Look for me on tv – I’ll be clustered with the small group of Chiefs fans who moved to the front rows on the 50 yard line because the stadium vacated after Kansas City went up 44-3 in the third quarter.

andatory credit: Thomas Campbell-US Presswire

More than one eyebrow raised when the Chiefs released their final roster and revealed both Nate Eachus and Jake O’Connell had made the cut with no fullback in sight (with four tight ends and five tailbacks, if there was any doubt remaining you’re going to see the Ace formation this year, it has be thoroughly squashed). Because Tamba Hali does not count among the final 53 this week due to his Atlanta game suspension, one more player must be cut or moved to the practice squad next week – which very well be one of these nine TEs/RBs.

This roster is not set in tone. As preseason injuries have conjured up one too many bad memories reminiscent of 2011, it’s important to remember several serviceable players become available every year as teams promote younger, cheaper replicas of their former starters (New England has been cutting former stars like crazy in some hyper-youth movement evil genius Bill Bellicheck no doubt began planning in a secluded laboratory five years ago). As such, there’s a small list of players on the back nine portion of their careers that I wouldn’t mind kicking the tires on, just in case.

With O-Linemen Jeff Allen and Donald Stephenson available to step up and play inside and outside, respectively, I’m comfortable with the talent level here. And fortunately there have been no big injury concerns for Kansas City on the offensive line. However, a couple options exist that the Chiefs should keep in mind because, quite frankly, merely having a backup guard and another tackle doesn’t create a glut of depth. 31-year-old guard Jake Scott has started 117 of the 120 games he’s played in (including a Super Bowl victory with Indianapolis over Chicago in 2007), and doesn’t give up sacks. Worth kicking the tires on.

Also to keep in mind is Trai Essex, released by the Steelers. Essex offers a solid flex potential having played right and left tackles, left guard, and center in the NFL. Center Dan Koppen, one of the Patriots’ several cuts, has started 120 games over nine years with one Pro Bowl appearance. His smaller size doesn’t offer the same versatility, but should Rodney Hudson ever go down, he would bring experience and a solid run-blocking acumen to the team. Finally available on the line, right tackle Kareem McKenzie won his second Super Bowl with the Giants last season before being released. All with tires exhibiting worn tread, but still worth kicking.

While the Chiefs’ secondary has more warm bodies to step in, they all seem to be injured. Brandon Flowers remains on the mend while Kendrick Lewis is out for the Falcons game. And though Eric Berry looked just as phenomenal as I remembered during the preseason, ACLs don’t come back stronger after tearing. Should any problems arise here Bryant McFadden is another two-time Super Bowl champion worth taking a look at (both with Pittsburgh), although at age 30 he’s already seeing his production decline and was never much of a ball hawk with just nine career interceptions. At 31, safety Oshiomogho Atogwe brings 25 career interceptions along with 5.5 sacks, 19 forced fumbles and over 500 tackles. The former track star could offer depth as a poor man’s Eric Berry for a secondary I worry poses as a weak link if it can’t stay healthy.

The final position worthy of attention is along the defensive line, although it may be an extreme situation to justify another big body here. Considering the release of Amon Gordon and condition of Anthony Toribio’s bum ankle, the Chiefs are starting a nose tackle they don’t believe is ready (Dontari Poe) and backing him up with a man unable to maintains his assignments (Jerrell Powe). Shaun Smith, who played in Kansas City in 2010, conducted a workout for the team but remains unsigned (it should be noted that Paddy has a particular rooting interest in picking up “The Perv,” principally to write that nickname over and over again). He is pictured above playing clean football.

I’d love to be able to simply pick up several of these players for insurance, but for every player picked up another player must be released. That’s another player who spent the offseason practicing with the Chiefs, learning the playbook and building team rapport. Additionally, youth and potential would be traded for age and experience in almost every instance – not a recipe for long-term success. Having one spare guard and tackle should be sufficient, particularly with David Mims still on the practice squad, and hopefully Toribio is healthy before long. However, I don’t think Kansas City can justify nine combined tight ends and tailbacks, and I want to see another DB because Neiko Thorpe on the practice doesn’t cut it. The problem is where to make room. Look out Stanzi, you better start impressing…

So what do you think Addicts – any available veterans out there you think should be brought in for a boost of depth? Anyone you’d be willing to cut to make room? Or is the youth movement worth more than bringing in a former starter at this point in the season?

Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-US PRESSWIRE

Last night I dreamt that the passing attack Kansas City trotted out on versus Seattle was pitted against the pass defense Kansas City trotted out versus Seattle. Worst.Nightmare.Ever.

One of the promising things everyone seems to be talking about was Nate Eachus’ late game heroics against the Seahawks as he rumbled for 98 yards and a touchdown, winning a couple hearts in the process. Eachus’ performance is the type that a marginal player requires to receive a second look and potentially earn a roster spot. The preseason is full of break out stars around the league that offer hope for the regular season, but fizzle out when presented with the prospect of 16 full games against first team talent. So here are your breakout stars through three weeks of preseason football, their prospects for future success, plus a bonus prediction for Thursday’s game for you to disagree with me on.

Game 1 (Chiefs v. Cardinals)

Break Out Star: Tight End Steve Maneri

Game Stats: 3 targets, 3 receptions, 69 yards, 23.0 yards/catch

How He Got Here: Drafted out of Temple by New England as a tackle, picked up on waivers and played sparingly for Kansas City in 2011. Dropped 40 pounds over the offseason to return to his college position of tight end.

Buy/Sell Preseason Stardom Translating Into Regular Season Success:
With Tony Moeaki returning from injury and former Raider Kevin Boss looking stellar so far, the Chiefs aren’t looking for another offensive weapon for their third tight end roster spot, where Maneri is competing with Jake O’Connell, who’s had eight NFL starts at tight end. Maneri is a more unknown commodity but should make the roster by either beating out O’Connell or simply providing another warm body able to block now that FB Shane Bannon has been cut. Maneri won’t receive extended playing time, but will punch a couple holes open in three tight end sets and should be good for a surprise 5 yard out route in the red zone this year. Buy.

Game 2 (Chiefs at Rams)

Break Out Star: Nose Tackle Jerrell Powe

Game Stats: None (Designated ‘breakout star’ despite not recording a tackle this game by providing consistent pressure, demanding double teams, and because I don’t think he gets enough respect. Also, I’m not sure who else deserves the designation.)

How He Got Here: Drafted out of Ole Miss by Kansas City in the 6th round in 2011.

Buy/Sell Preseason Stardom Translating Into Regular Season Success:
Will Powe make the roster with Anthony Toribio slated to start at nose tackle and Dontari Poe assuring his spot by virtue of his first round pick? Powe has all the makings of a damn good football player with none of the results. He was a five star recruit, but was denied college admission two straight years and spent a third at Ole Miss ineligible to play. When h was eligible he was the top rated nose tackle prospect entering his final season, but disappointed and ended up being drafted in the sixth round. At this point Powe is showing more consistency than Dontari, and I believe he’ll be on the roster on opening weekend. Assuming he’s more ready than Dontari, he could spot Toribio a few plays in the second half of games. However, his job remains commanding double teams so that Hali is free to eat quarterbacks, so don’t expect much movement in the stats column. Push.

Game 3 (Chiefs v. Seahawks)

Break Out Star: Running Back Nate Eachus

Game Stats: 10 carries, 98 yards, 9.8 yards/carry, 1 touchdown

How He Got Here: Rookie, undrafted out of Division I-AA Colgate University.

Buy/Sell Preseason Stardom Translating Into Regular Season Success:
Eachus survived Monday’s cut from 89 to 75 players, but must still beat out 22 others to even make the team. His presence may be more insurance than interest at this point in the preseason, as the starters will be played sparingly against the Packers and coordinator DaBoll may hide the helmets of Hillis and Charles after the first drive for good measure. Similar to Maneri, Eachus benefits from Bannon being cut as more room is now available in the backfield, leaving Shawn Draugh, Cyrus Gray, and Eachus to play out this game. With Gray still battling injuries, expect Eachus to receive a few carries as the Chiefs’ staff give him another look following last week’s performance. However, he remains a longshot to make the roster, and even then a loaded backfield means Eachus would be a special teams contributor at most. Sell.

Game 4 (Chiefs at Packers)

Projected Break Out Star: Quarterback Alex Tanney

Projected Game Stats: 8 for 12 passing, 102 yards, -2 yards rushing, 1 passing touchdown

How He Got Here: The undrafted Youtube sensation from NCAA III Monmouth College was originally picked up by Buffalo and signed as a free agent with Kansas City over the summer.

Buy/Sell Preseason Stardom Translating Into Regular Season Success:
Tanney was a pleasant surprise against Green Bay after receiving minimal attention during training camp and watching most reps go to Quinn and Stanzi as they battled for the #2 spot. However, dissatisfaction with Stanzi’s play to this point caused the organization to give Tanney a chance and he impressed by hitting Jamar Newsome on a 55 yard touchdown pass and demonstrating better than expected decision-making overall. However, he also put the ball on the ground after being pressured out of the pocket (fortunately recovered by Eachus) and was too hesitant at times. Stanzi finally flashed the potential we’ve been waiting for by hooking up with Terrance Copper twice for touchdowns and ultimately giving Pioli the confidence that Stanzi has the skills to serve as the #3 QB. Tanney will be relegated to the practice squad and have to wait another year to get his shot in the pros. Sell.

So what do you think Addicts – which of these players are the real deal? And who do you expect to step up with an unexpectedly powerful performance at Green Bay that wins them a spot on the final roster?

Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-US PRESSWIRE

After a summer of wrangling, a string of missed preseason workouts, and scores of unnecessary ulcers across Chiefs nation, Dwayne Bowe is finally in pads and practicing. Players hardly ever garner sympathy from fans for holding out (we want our team’s players to commit to playing for small amounts so we can afford other superstars, and they damn well better not miss any practice time that threatens team success), and the past month failed to win Bowe any support as his actions were viewed as a selfish excuse to avoid training camp. If I were Bowe, I too would lack desire to stay in a cramped dorm room for no pay (Bowe couldn’t be fined for not attending camp because he wasn’t on contract, so there was no financial incentive for him to show up). However, I’m a fan that wants what’s best for the Chiefs, so I get to deem his actions selfish. That’s the way the sports world works. Yet as much as it hurts to say, there is a chance Bowe won’t be suiting up in red and gold next year. The odds of this scenario playing out rest on a few important questions:

Can Jon Baldwin Be a #1 Wide Receiver?

The Chiefs would only be willing to part with Bowe if they believe Baldwin can step up and replace him, and there are many reasons to believe he can be a successful #1. He’s 6-4 with speed. He displayed tremendous acrobatic skills at Pitt where attitude concerns, not playing ability, prevented him from being drafted earlier than 26th. Some of last year’s lack of production can be attributed to the infamous wrist injury that caused him to miss the preseason and part of the regular season. Plus, wide receivers typically need a year to break out anyway (Bowe being an exception* to this rule).

Of course, there’s one quick response to these declarations: prove it. Sports fans are notoriously subject to groupthink, and every message board out there has someone proclaiming Baldwin will have a breakout season based on a pretty catch they heard he made in training camp. He may have 55 catches for 700 yards this year, and if he did I wouldn’t be overly surprised, but I need to see it to believe it. He was targeted 52 times in 2011 but only hauled in 21 catches – by far the worst ratio on the team. Forgive me if my confidence still needs some reinforcement.

*As a side note, Bowe’s exceptional rookie season in 2007 (70 receptions, 995 yards) may have been a function of both his talents and his teammates’ lack of’ ‘em. The Chiefs’ #2 and #3 WRs were Jeff Webb and Samie Parker. You haven’t heard of these guys recently because they’re playing in the United Football League and Canadian Football League, respectively. Bowe caught passes partially because he and Tony Gonzalez were the only viable targets on the field to throw to.

What Does This Do to the Rest of the Depth Chart?

With Baldwin at #1, Breaston returns to the second receiving option and McCluster moves into the slot. With Wylie in the mix, this becomes a much shorter (literally) receiving crew. If the Chiefs don’t pick up another solid receiver, this unit goes from one of the most exciting in the league to one of the most pedestrian faster than a Shaun Draughn stutter step. You’re excited for this offense because of the myriad weapons it will employ, and Bowe is a very necessary part of the equation.

Can Bowe’s Salary Demands Buy Something Better?

We don’t know what each side’s final offer was, but it appears Bowe was demanding Larry Fitzgerald money while offering slightly less than Fitzgerald skills. However, salary decisions are based on a cost-benefit analysis and I don’t see anyone who offers the same or greater benefit for the same or lower cost. Assuming Hillis has a solid season he will demand more than his current contract, and the Chiefs will be faced with a choice of whether to pay top dollar for the privilege of a change-of-pace back. Another elite linebacker could make the defense hella-fun (James Laurinaitis is available next year — how friggin’ awesome would it be to pair him inside next to Hali, Houston, and Johnson!?). The recent Kendrick Lewis and Brandon Flowers injuries suggest another starting caliber defensive back would be a good investment. A host of receivers will also be available, though none would provide an upgrade from Bowe. Additionally, we can all cross our fingers and wish really, really hard for Flacco to suddenly become discontent and not resign with Baltimore. In the end, I look at the list of upcoming free agents and nothing really stands out to me. A couple first round draft picks can always be traded for an expensive star, but short of this, there aren’t a lot of investments for the Chiefs to spend their sizable cap space on that offer a solid upgrade over the current starters. And with $15 million to play with, the Chiefs can probably afford to resign Bowe, resign Hillis, and bring in a roster addition.

Does Bowe Even Want to Stay in Kansas City?

Although photos of a #82 Dodge Charger began circulating the internet last month, it’s unknown if this was a recent purchase or came out of a garage during the Herman Edwards era. Bowe is a certifiable star in the area and hasn’t caused a lot of trouble for the franchise. There are also a host of reasons anyone would want to play in Kansas City: players love Crennel; the opportunity to win playoff games now; the youth to suggest staying power; the fan base. It’s true Kansas City will never offer the glitz of New York or the franchise history of Dallas (see Brandon Carr). However, there’s no indication Bowe is dissatisfied with the Chiefs; he just wanted more guaranteed money over the long term. If Bowe truly wanted out, he could have made these intentions clear to see what other teams would bite.

Because he was designated a non-exclusive franchise player, Bowe may negotiate with other NFL teams but the Chiefs have the option of matching any offer or receiving two first round picks as compensation for losing Bowe. I doubt there are many teams willing to offer more than the Chiefs would be willing to match right now, which would make Bowe wait to shop around his services until the Chiefs don’t have the option of matching opposition offers if he really wanted out.

The answers to the questions above are Probably, Yikes, Unlikely, and Why Not? Of course, this is a moot point if Kansas City simply franchises him a second straight year (bonus: AA gets to recycle this article by simply changing the title to “Will Dwayne Bowe Be a Chief in 2014?”). If they can afford it, there’s no good reason the Chiefs shouldn’t just have two #1 talents at wide receiver. I also think the number of weapons on this team will hurt Bowe’s production, which should hold down his value and decrease his leverage. In the end, it’s hard to see Bowe playing somewhere else in 2013 because the Chiefs can afford to keep him, and they can’t afford to lose him.

Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-US PRESSWIRE

Preseason games answer personnel questions, determining who truly belongs and who’s expendable, and identify areas to focus on. Last Friday against Arizona, the ACL club – as they’ve affectionately been dubbed – answered that it was ready to make plays. All four RBs looked good. You may disagree, but CB Jacques Reeves seemed to play well too – although he was thoroughly manhandled by Cardinals receiver Michael Floyd during a long run by William Powell. Speaking of Powell, while I’m not one to root for an opponent, I was happy to see the former Wildcat enjoy the success he did that game.

Going back to the Chiefs, one player that may have raised as many questions as answers was Steve Maneri. A 2010 graduate from Temple, Maneri was picked up by the Texans after going undrafted and converted from a tight end to offensive tackle, but failed to make the final roster. He then spent a year on the Patriots’ practice squad before being waived last fall. The Chiefs, upon hearing someone from New England was available, naturally claimed him off waivers less than 24 hours later because that’s what Kansas City does with anyone having spent time with the Patriots. After playing in six games last year (mostly short yardage personnel packages), he dropped 40 pounds over the offseason and debuted last week as a converted/reverted tight end. He went on to become one of the “surprise stars” of the game, hauling in three catches for 69 yards.

Assuming Maneri’s performance was more than a single, preseason game fluke, the question of whether the Chiefs need to maintain a full time fullback on the roster remains. With Le’Ron McClain gone, Shane Bannon has the inside track at the position. Bannon was a seventh round pick who performed well in pre-draft workouts and may be a promising prospect, but Kansas City simply doesn’t need Bannon or anyone else taking up a roster spot as the Chiefs fullback. I love a good list, so here’s five reasons why:

1. You undervalue Matt Cassell. Yes, I’m making this my number one reason if for no other reason than getting in your craw, and I don’t care. The Chiefs will be a great running team, but will not be some bland “use the Power I to set up play action passes” team. You’re going to see some empty backfield spreads that stretch defenses, and Cassell will deliver the necessarily quick throws to be effective. You will also be treated to…

2. Two Tight End Sets. While Kevin Boss was a bit of an insurance acquisition in March while Moeaki was suffering through rehab, he’s not being paid $9 million over three years to sit on his duff on Sunday. With two tight ends, Bowe, and Baldwin on the field the ace formation could become a familiar sight this season. In this instance we will only need a single running back at a time. As a bonus, one of the running backs we can use is…

3. Peyton Hillis. He played fullback at Arkansas. Denver drafted and played him as a fullback. He can fill this void while still getting his yards and sliding out the of backfield to make beautiful touchdown catches (which he provided us with Friday night). Hillis is part of a loaded stable of running backs which suggests…

4. The 53rd spot is better used elsewhere. I’d rather keep an extra offensive tackle or possibly even defensive back than increasing our number of running backs. Preferably this would be a tackle, the position formerly played by…

5. Steve Maneri. Bringing this full circle, the Chiefs seem to have a player with soft hands who’s also capable of blocking. He’s versatile, and at 6-6 could make goal line sets all the more exciting. I confess to not knowing how adept he is at hindering rushing linebackers at this stage in his transformation, but everything I’ve read seems to indicate he’s much more comfortable in his current mobile body than in the 300 pound frame the Chiefs had him playing with.

None of this is to argue a team shouldn’t have a traditional fullback on their roster, and we fondly remember how important Tony Richardson was in helping Priest Holmes break records and the Chiefs make the playoffs. However, I’m quickly gaining confidence in this team’s ability to achieve success without an officially designated FB on the roster. Hell, I may not even miss McClain. And as Pioli continues to remake the Chiefs in his image of a team with multipurpose players rather than a collection of individuals, aren’t labels just arbitrary anyway?

Mary Langenfeld-US PRESSWIRE

Preseason games are like candy corn – they’re pretty much garbage, you know they’re garbage, but every year you’re suckered into consuming them while actively thinking, “Man, this really is just unremarkable fluff.” This will be particularly true for Chiefs fans, who face a slate of three underwhelming NFC West teams before finishing at Green Bay. Purchase requirements for season ticket holders make these awful match-ups even more annoying, but such is the price we pay. Each of these games can offer something to learn, so let’s pretend preseason games will provide at least one full half of starters, open playbooks, and useful insight to a unit in question.

Preseason Week 1: Arizona Cardinals

Arizona doesn’t sport any strong areas and should not be able to hang with the Chiefs in a regular season game, making this an opportunity to test weaknesses rather than strengths. The Cardinals ranked 31st last season in sacks allowed at 54 and did little to remedy this problem over the offseason.

On the other side of the ball, one of KC’s most glaring weaknesses last year was the generation of a pass rush, tying for 30th in the NFL at 29 sacks. With the tank known as Dontari Poe clogging the middle, a season under Justin Houston’s belt, and the return of Eric Berry’s safety blitz, anticipate more pressure on opposing quarterbacks. However, there’s still no proof KC’s defensive linemen will play together like three first round draft picks. If the front seven can generate more sacks and hurries this year, Brandon Flowers will look even more superhuman while any potential drop in quality from Brandon Carr to Stanford Routt will be masked. But if we can’t even pressure Kevin Kolb into unwanted plays, watch out, because it’s going to be another frustrating year for the defense.

Preseason Week 2: At St. Louis Rams

Whenever Chiefs fans start feeling bad about their plight, they sneak a quick glance East on I-70 towards Edward Jones Stadium. There resides the worst team in the league over the past five seasons with a mere 15 wins. As the only team to give up more sacks than Arizona last year, St. Louis truly is a sad franchise. However, I promised to give something to watch every game (and talking about generating sacks again would be Randy Moss lazy), so this is the game we learn how much of an upgrade T Eric Winston is over Berry Richardson and what immediate impact can be expected from rookies Jeff Allen and Donald Stephenson.

The Rams defense is anchored by DE Chris Long and MLB James Laurinaitis and promises to keep its lackluster offense in several games. Their front seven will achieve equally potent penetration against the run and pass. Starters often play the entire first half in game two, and expect both Kansas City draft picks to see extensive time against the Rams number one defense.

Preseason Week 3: Seattle Seahawks

Providing a slight talent upgrade for week three, the Seahawks ranked 28th in sacks allowed at 50 in 2011, extending the theme of not getting too excited if the front seven generates good pressure while considering a lack of sacks as reason for major concern. The strongest part of Seattle’s defense is its secondary, which sports one of the league’s best safety duos (Earl Thomas and Kam Chancellor) and a solid pair of aggressive corners (Brandon Browner and Richard Sherman).

This game will present the first challenge to the Chiefs’ receiving corps in however it manifests itself (as of this writing, Bowe remains a no-show at camp). The Seahawks played an aggressive man-cover defense last year that will force Cassell to make tight throws to receivers pressed to seriously fight for separation. Among the potential things to watch: how Baldwin performs as a number one receiver; if Devon Wylie’s quickness can translate into success on the professional level; and if Junior Hemingway was the seventh round steal many are hoping for. Starters often play a full half and sometimes into the third quarter during preseason game #3, and this test could provide quality information if Bowe remain MIA or if his current absence leaves him under-prepared at this stage in the season.

Preseason Week 4: At Green Bay Packers

The last week is the least week from a fan’s perspective, serving primarily as a final audition for marginal players to win a roster spot with vanilla play calls from the sideline. First teamers are typically pulled after one or two series (if they play at all) in anticipation of the regular season. However, the Packers are a group of warriors and should they be interested in playing their starters to extract a little revenge for last year’s upset, and should Crennel demonstrate his departure from the Haley regime by matching their intensity, watch the Chiefs’ secondary.

While Greg Jennings and Jordy Nelson are superb talents, seven receivers caught at least 25 passes for the Packers last year. Aaron Rodgers will attempt to exploit Routt’s overly aggressive reputation and Berry’s ability to rapidly change direction while backpedaling will be tested (although this action relies more on hip fluidity than knee support, Green Bay’s sets demand Berry demonstrate more range than the three prior opponents). Both sides will put an array of exciting talent on the field, and if the Chiefs can shut down Green Bay’s receivers, Peyton Manning is in for a rough introduction to the AFC West.

Well Addicts, with this entry I complete my trial period for the website. I’ve enjoyed the opportunity over the past month to contribute my thoughts on what I anticipate will be an exciting and successful season while gaining a little more respect for the writers that provide consistent material for me to surf rather than finish the tasks my boss assigns me. I also maintain my rightness to anyone that disagreed with me. Except for the reader that called me out for describing Arrowhead Stadium as a sea of red and yellow – it is, for the record, red and gold (I blame Wiz Khalifa’s ‘Black and Yellow’ being stuck in my head at the time). Red and gold, Taz Mosis, red and gold.

Sep 20, 2009; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs fans tailgate before the game against the Oakland Raiders at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee/Image of Sport-US PRESSWIRE

The Chiefs game experience kicks off by wandering through a sea of red and yellow disciples feasting on BBQ done right. Between the tailgating, red choreography, and general camaraderie, there’s an element of college game day atmosphere other stadiums simply fail at (our fans are so awesome, apparently even San Diego wants a piece). Once you’ve downed a couple Boulevards – or 10 of something less pretentious – you go from parking lot to stadium where 80,000 fans are chanting, “We’re gonna beat the hell out of you, you, you!” Then it gets loud. Arrowhead is part legend, part lore, and affords a litany of anecdotes:

-Constructed in 1972, the stadium is situated partly below ground with a comparatively high seat slope. I call it the Canyon Effect. The Canyon Effect imprisons sound, causing it to bounce and echo while disrupting opposing teams’ concentration. It’s science, and it’s awesome.

-The Acoustical Design Group once used science to measure Arrowhead’s decibel level, which topped out at 116. For reference, a Boeing 727 landing on the runway generates about 106 decibels of noise while three minutes of exposure to 120 decibels causes hearing loss. Awesome.

-The 1991 MNF game against Buffalo featured Jim Kelly’s famed no-huddle offense. The no-huddle lasted one series as Buffalo’s offensive linemen were unable to hear Kelly’s play calls. They went to the huddle the rest of the game, being disoriented into a 33-6 loss (the playoff rematch in Buffalo wasn’t so awesome).

-A bevy of Chiefs fans is far greater than any other team’s followers. This is also science.

NFL changes introduced last month stand to further promote the homefield advantage. Though league rules previously forbid PA announcers from inciting fans to get rowdy, this regulation exists no more. And while this may enhance the experience of fans, other teams probably stand to benefit more than the Chiefs. As mentioned above, Chiefs Nation already knows loud noises are crucial to preventing successful curl routes on 3rd down amid 4th quarter comebacks. Yet when the JumboTron in Arizona or Jacksonville announces the need for racket, those teams will now receive support previously lacking. All opponents will more easily harness the difference-making impact Chiefs fans have set the standard for.

Among the other changes in store for this year courtesy of NFL-mandated upgrades include: wi-fi in every stadium; smartphone apps allowing fans to listen in to players wearing microphones; and the same replay angles being viewed by referees during challenged calls be shown to fans. These moves reflect the challenge of drawing viewers out of their homes and into the stadium, an issue reflected by the fact franchises must now only sell 85 percent of their tickets to avoid a blackout (rather than 100 percent ticket sales).

While my personal game day experience won’t be enriched by wi-fi access in the end zone, these changes represent a solid move to keep up with the enhanced product provided by home entertainment systems. The question is, what else can the Chiefs do to ensure sell-out crowds that keep 116 decibels of smack down in the air? I suggest getting two or three K.C. Wolfs to wander the parking lot before games. Even though I spent my childhood convinced there was a mouse mascot dancing in the end zone, you know damn right I wanted that rodent dropping by my tailgate. Another game day enhancement? Maybe get rid of those red flags on the coach’s hip…

So there you have it, Addicts – the possibility Arrowhead’s unique home field advantage will become more average in exchange for maximum Twitter access. Does it matter? And would it be blasphemous to have more than one K.C. Wolf roaming the lot at one time? Would you party with a rat in the home of the Chiefs?

John Rieger-US PRESSWIRE

July 16came and went with no long-term contract for Dwayne Bowe, leaving the fate of a great fantasy player up in the air for another year. The Chiefs are one of six teams to have used the franchise tag the past two years (Tamba Hali last year), and would do well to avoid a third straight year (Oakland is the only organization that currently holds third straight year status, which is surprising because they seem soooo well run otherwise). Because this time of year lends itself to lists, here’s five potential franchise tag scenarios for 2013:

1. Dwayne Bowe (again) Players can be franchised two straight years and three times total over their career. So while we could conceivably witness this rodeo return to town next summer, there’s certainly no one calling for it. Wide receivers are the divas of the NFL, and Bowe seems continually unable to shake his reputation for it. While his attitude deserves more credit than the general media typically affords, I can’t imagine him playing with great enthusiasm if franchised a second time. This year may provide the impetus to work even harder for a lofty payday in 2013, but two straight years would shake the already suspect focus he brings to the field.

2. Dustin Colquitt Colquitt has proven a reliable and strong leg, and is good enough to provide the margin of victory in a tight game an average punter wouldn’t. At issue: you’re using your franchise tag on a friggin’ punter. Yet while this scenario seems ridiculous at first, consider five teams placed tags on kickers this year while the Giants tagged punter Steve Weatherford. With cap space remaining and few major contracts expiring next year, this is a distinct possibility if the Chiefs can’t come to an agreement with Colquitt. And yes, he is worth the money.

3. Branden Albert This is the one that really worries me. Albert is due a major raise, and this is what’s known for certain: Branden Albert is talented; Albert has progressed in the system; continuity was an important factor in the success of those early 2000s line that elevated Priest Holmes to legendary status; we definitely want this guy back. Something to watch is the number of other big name left tackles with contracts expiring next year. Jake Long (Dolphins), Ryan Clady (Broncos), and Duane Brown (Texans) are among the potential free agents that could help keep reduce the price of left tackles as elite supply hits the open market.

4. Glenn Dorsey I loved the Dorsey pick in the 2008 draft. I’ve regretted it ever since. There’s no doubt Dorsey is a serviceable starting defensive lineman, but with a contract of $51 million over five years we’ve already pumped enough money into this guy. I’d like to see Dorsey re-signed, but he wouldn’t be worth the franchise tag. Interestingly, the 3-4 defense works against the Chiefs in this situation. In 2010, the non-exclusive franchise tag was $12.4 million for a defensive end and $7 million for a defensive tackle. In the 4-3, where Dorsey played DT, he would command about 35 percent less than as a DE in the 3-4 scheme.

5. Brady Quinn Just for fun, let’s pretend Matt “Please Just Manage the Game and Don’t Blow It” Cassel cedes his role to Quinn at some point in the season and the 2007 draft’s crying spectacle rediscovers his first-round talent while slinging his way to the Pro Bowl. I think I read once that Kansas City has assembled a very talented roster and is one above average quarterback away from being truly great. If Charlie Weis is correct and Quinn proves his chops, we could have our man. When this happens, hit me up for some winning lottery numbers.

Peyton Hillis Bonus! Hillis only signed a one-year contract and, assuming he’s only using the Chiefs as a springboard to another team as a feature back, won’t be sporting an arrowhead on his helmet next year. Unless…

A couple other contracts of note set to expire next year are Donald Washington, Jovan Belcher, and Ryan Lilja. Washington and Belcher haven’t proven critical to the team’s success, while a replacement plan for Lilja may already be underway as Jeff Allen is brought up. Address one or two items, and the Scott Pioli process looks to have legitimately set the franchise up for long-term success.

Charles LeClaire-USPRESSWIRE

Allow me to introduce myself: My name is Dave Thoman, and I know that Jamaal Charles is the best running back the Chiefs have. I could recite his accomplishments and drone on about how I believe he will come back from last year’s injury just fine, but there’s no use in preaching to the choir here. What you may not be ready to hear is that Charles not only fails to carry the title of “most indispensable to the team,” he’s not even the most indispensable at his position; Peyton Hillis’ presence is more important to our success this year.

To avoid being immediately suspended from ever writing again, let me qualify that paragraph by saying I’m not merely judging what a player brings to the table – I’m also evaluating how readily their talents can be replaced. A 1,500 yard season for Charles and 1,000 yard season for Hillis are not unreasonable expectations. But without Hillis, we have no change-of-pace bruiser. Currently on the roster at fullback are Shane Bannon, who spent his rookie year in 2011 on the practice squad, and Taylor Gentry, an undrafted rookie out of North Carolina State. Unless one of these guys exceeds expectations during training camp, there is no reliable replacement to run between the tackles and provide backfield pass protection if Hillis goes down.

Last year Jackie Battle led the team in rushing while Thomas Jones ranked third. They’re never coming back.* Dexter McCluster caught 46 receptions and was second on the team in rushing while averaging 4.5 yards/carry in 2011. McCluster is also 5’8″, 170 lbs. He’s a serviceable substitute for Charles, but not Hillis. He’s an exciting player who may not deliver Pro Bowl talent, but can provide backup if needed to move in from wide receiver. Additionally, with the glut of receivers the Chiefs suddenly find themselves blessed with, moving McCluster back into the backfield wouldn’t be that damaging to the receiving corps – we should still have a solid set of receivers plus Moeaki at TE. Cyrus Gray also intrigues me, and provides about the same size as Charles.

*Editor’s Note: Thank God on Jones.

There is no doubt in my mind that Charles’ contributions will be greater than Hillis’  this year. Yet in the event of some unforeseen event depriving us of this extraordinary backfield duo, I’m gritting my teeth and professing a preference for keeping Hillis. Besides, the Chiefs need a bruiser in January to run out the clock as Peyton Manning watches the time wind down to zero to record our first playoff win in far too long.

So whaddaya think, Addicts, does our roster allow us to be more concerned for the health of Peyton Hillis than Jamaal Charles? Or should I stop writing and just go back to reading Arrowhead Addict from the sidelines?