Can the Chiefs overtake the Broncos in 2015?

Mandatory Credit: John Rieger-USA TODAY Sports

I think that the Chiefs take over the AFC West in 2015. While they have struggled out of gate I think that this year they will start with two wins. Denver does have Peyton Manning but in front of KC’s home crowd who is certain to be raucous and unceasing in the week 2 showdown, I think the defense is enough to slow down Denver’s offensive firepower. Manning struggled in 2014 after getting injured. He is not the player he was 3 or 4 years ago; he is very good but he is not able to single-handedly dissect a team anymore.

Denver’s defense will have its hands full trying to keep Kansas City’s running game in check. Over the past two seasons teams have started to stack the box on Alex Smith because they knew he wouldn’t test them. I think that changes this season. Smith will have a WR or two that gets the separation he wants and will be able to get open on their own without having to scheme them open. When Denver is forced to drop back to defend the pass Charles will be ready to run the ball all over them. When Charles gets going on offense the Chiefs will have an offensive attack in which the defense will have to pick their poison much like the Broncos have been over the past couple of seasons.

I think Kansas City holds a clear advantage at head coach as well. I’m not saying John Fox is a better coach than Andy Reid and that this has necessarily shifted from Denver to KC, but I do think that Fox is better than Gary Kubiak. Kubiak will have to be creative to find ways to keep his defense rested and his offense in tune when he plays Kansas City and I don’t think he will get the job done.

What do you think, Addicts? Who do you think wins the AFC West in 2015?