The five biggest down-the-stretch challenges facing the Kansas City Chiefs

4. Staying healthy

Is this too generic? It might apply to every team but it doesn't make it any less true for the Chiefs.

We've already seen the Chiefs adjust to roster challenges at multiple positions this season, especially on defense, in impressive ways. They began the year without Chris Jones and Charles Omenihu on the front line, and then the linebacking corps took some hits with injuries both long-term (Nick Bolton) and short-term (Willie Gay, Drue Tranquill). Even so, the defense still carried them to multiple wins in the season's first half.

Going forward, the Chiefs are still without Bolton until late December. They're also looking thin in the offensive backfield with the lack of production behind Nick Bolton and a groin injury for Jerick McKinnon. Wide receiver has been an issue all year and any injuries there could only make it worse. And of course, we saw just how frustrating the offense was without Travis Kelce for a game (bone bruise in Week 1).

The Chiefs will only make it so far on the talent acquired. From there, it's up to the coaching staff (to make smart decisions), the training staff (to keep players adjusted to the rigors of a long season), and some considerable luck on the health front.