2015 NFL predictions
By Ben Almquist
AFC West
0 TDs from WRs is an incredible stat…even more incredible is having a winning season with that stat. Jeremy Maclin alone makes this team more dangerous. Mandatory Credit: John Rieger-USA TODAY Sports
Kansas City Chiefs (11-5; 1st Place AFC West)
Story of the season – The big story of the 2014 Chiefs was that their wide receivers failed to put up a single receiving touchdown. Despite that, this was a team that finished 9-7 and just missed the playoffs. Kansas City should be able to improve on last year’s most laughable stat, and that will help lead to more wins. The schedule also plays out favorably with a few opponents looking to take a step backwards. The offensive line is the big question for this team, and that could play out poorly in the postseason.
San Diego Chargers (10-6; 2nd Place AFC West – Wild Card)
Story of the season – Melvin Gordon has yet to impress in preseason and they’ll be without Antonio Gates to start the year, but this is still a good team. They have a favorable schedule that will help them get some key wins. The overall picture in San Diego is unclear, but I expect them to be a competitor for the division in 2015. They have some potent weapons…oh, and that Phillip Rivers guy.
Denver Broncos (9-7; 3rd Place AFC West)
Story of the season – The Broncos have been riding the Peyton Train for a few years now, but we all knew it had to stop eventually. A new coaching staff and scheme will be a big change for the offense. The o-line has some major question marks, and it is unclear how they will replace the production of Julius Thomas and Wes Welker. The defense is loaded with talent among its starters, and that will be what keeps them afloat this season.
Oakland Raiders (7-9; 4th Place AFC West)
Story of the season – The Raiders have built a solid young foundation, but it’s still young. Overall, there is more potential than proven talent on this roster. That means owner Mark Davis is going to have to do something that neither his father or he have done in the past decade…be patient. The Raiders play a tough schedule in a strong division. They’re moving in the right direction though.
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