A Look At The AFC West

After reading Michael Lombardi’s blog, I found a few interesting things that I would like to point out. In his observations about various teams as camps are about to open, he says, “Denver will need to find a pass rush, a running game, an ability to protect the passer..in simple terms, Denver has a lot of questions and few answers.”

After a poor 2007-2008 season, I can see why he said that, but does he know the voids they filled in the off-season? A pass rush = the return of Ebenezer Ekuban; A running game = versatility in Selvin Young, Michael Pittman, et al.; Ability to protect passer = “Sweet Feet” (a.k.a. Ryan Clady). I think the Broncos have got the answers. It’s just a matter of working together to execute their plan.

Other statements Lombardi made about teams in the AFC West:

– “KC had a great draft, they are two more drafts away from winning 8 games….it’s all about QB’s in the NFL.”

– “Oakland needs to find a passing game, a PRO passing game”

– “SD has talent, they have depth, they have great special teams and will avoid the bad start this year….All Rivers needs to do is facilitate the offense”

There’s no doubt that San Diego looks best on paper. They had a strong showing last year, and Philip Rivers basically has this season’s outcome in his hands. Too bad for Colts’ fans that he’s a headcase.

After the first week of the regular season, this is how I think things will look in the AFC West:

Denver: The media will be impressed by Jay Cutler’s performance. A couple of TD’s and no interceptions as the Broncos take home a big win in Oakland.

Kansas City: Tough but predictable loss for this group. As they leave New England, they will be dreaming of their days with Jared Allen.

Oakland: Raider fans will once again file out of the stadium with their heads down asking why they gave Javon Walker such a big contract.

San Diego:  At 1-0, they will be a confident bunch. Then, they will take the dreaded flight to New England for a week 2 massacre.