Surprising the league by taking the AFC West title, the Chiefs likely played over their heads. Matt Cassel took charge of Charlie Weis’ offense by tossing 27 TD’s and only seven interceptions. However, Weis has left for collegiate pastures, leaving Cassel in a perilous predicament in his fourth year as a starter, behind a still-retooling offensive line. Jared Gaither should eventually move in as the starter at right tackle, but only when the team feels he’s completely healthy and ready to go. In the meantime running back Jamaal Charles must repeat his 1400 yard season when teams will probably stack the box against him. The only wide-out of real significance is obviously Dwayne Bowe, whose circus catches in double coverage would excite any fan. Losing tight end Tony Moeaki will set Cassel back though. With 47 receptions on 2010, Moeaki was due for another step forward. While the Kansas City defense was greatly improved by giving up just over 20 points a game, but they still gave up a metric ton of yardage. Eric Berry and Brandon Flowers are two dynamic playmakers in the secondary, but the right defensive front of Glenn Dorsey and Tamba Hali will be depended on for quarterback pressure. Head coach Todd Haley got the most out of his players in 2010, but that trend won’t continue into 2011. They’re going to fall back to Earth slightly.
Continue reading "Joe's 2011 NFL Season Preview: The AFC West"
