5 reasons Broncos won’t win AFC West
![Dec 13, 2015; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos quarterback Brock Osweiler (17) reacts after fumbling the ball in the end zone during the second half against the Oakland Raiders at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. The Raiders won 15-12. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports Dec 13, 2015; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos quarterback Brock Osweiler (17) reacts after fumbling the ball in the end zone during the second half against the Oakland Raiders at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. The Raiders won 15-12. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/096b41e82af48aba10b3a79acf4b5497b0527500075e440093bcacbcab0c7e9f.jpg)
4) Hard-charging Chiefs
There has not been a better team in the NFL over the last half of the season than the Kansas City Chiefs. After beating the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 7, the Chiefs have ripped off a seven-game winning streak, including pummeling Peyton Manning and the Broncos in Week 10.
The defense has been scintillating, holding five of seven opponents under 20 points during the streak. While the defense, like the Broncos, has looked elite, the offense is starting to get going. Alex Smith is not a world beating quarterback, but he is good enough to win games, and with Travis Kelce, Jeremy Maclin and whoever starts at running back making plays, the offense is putting up points.
Kansas City also has a wonderful upcoming schedule. They don’t face one club above .500, and their toughest game will be the season-finale against the Raiders, though the game will be played in Arrowhead. It is not improbable that the Chiefs run the table and finish the year at 11-5. They will also have an excellent divisional record at 5-1. If the Chiefs win out it would put all the pressure in the world on Denver, who faces Pittsburgh and Cincinnati in Weeks 15 and 16. It would not be all that surprising for Denver to fold and Kansas City to ascend.
Next: 5. Tough Schedule