Denver Broncos (away)
Date: Nov. 27
Time: 3:05 p.m. CST
Channel: CBS
What has changed: The Broncos had a rough offseason, one that began with the loss of Brock Osweiler but also and perhaps more importantly, included the departures of defensive end Malik Jackson and inside linebacker Danny Trevathan. Denver relies heavily on its defense not only stopping the opposition but for scoring points and creating turnovers.
Defensive coordinator Wade Phillips is one of the best in the business and still has plenty of talent to work with, but this is going to be a bit more challenging than last year’s unit.
Should they scare you?: The defense is going to be rough against Kansas City, with a pair of excellent pass-rushers coming off the edges in Von Miller and DeMarcus Ware. However, the defensive line can be exploited off the left side and the inside linebackers are not nearly as strong without Trevathan (also, it should be noted that Brandon Marshall is a quality player).
The main challenge for the Chiefs is dealing with the crowd noise and staying on schedule during first and second down. If Alex Smith and the ground game can pick up little chunks and play to a manageable third down, Kansas City is in good shape.
Prediction: 20-17, Chiefs
Next: Game #12