AFC West Grades Week 6
Grades for teams performances in the AFC West in Week 6
October 20, 2016
Broncos: D
The Broncos lost on Thursday night to the Chargers 21-13, which is their second loss in as many weeks. The Broncos, who got off to a great start to the 2016 season, are now struggling on offense even with the return of starting QB Trevor Siemian. C.J. Anderson who got off to an amazing start to the season has now rushed for just 164 yards in the last four games on 54 rushes. Even with one of the most elite defenses in the league, if the Broncos can’t get the offense going then they could quickly find themselves towards the end of the division. They will have a matchup at home under the lights against the Texans, Monday night.
Chiefs: A
The Chiefs moved to 3-2, defeating the Raiders 26-10 as Andy Reid improved to an amazing 16-2 in games following a bye. The Chiefs just pounded the ball on the ground behind backs Spencer Ware and Jamaal Charles, as they combined for 164 yards and two touchdowns. The defense let up just three points after the first offensive drive against the Raiders talented offensive. But the highlight of the game was a screen pass to 346 pound nose tackle Dontari Poe, in the third quarter. When something like that happens you know it’s your day. Next is a matchup against the Saints at home, where the Chiefs are undefeated so far this season.
Chargers: A-
The Chargers pulled off a surprise upset against the Broncos which moved them to 2-4 on the season and 1-1 inside the division. The Chargers have had a tough season. They lost last week to the Raiders after a potential game-tying field goal was fumbled, and their three losses before that had come after they led at the two minute warning. They also lost their best playmakers Keenan Allen and Danny Woodhead to ACL injuries in the first two weeks. But finally, they were able to hold on and win an impressive matchup. Melvin Gordon who has been brilliant this year, did not get in the end zone for the first time this season, but still had 94 yards rushing as he continues to be a cornerstone of this offense. Up next for the Chargers is a tough matchup against the 5-1 Falcons in Atlanta.
Raiders: C-
This was just not a good game for the Raiders. They scored a touchdown on their first offensive possession, but after that they were essentially shutout by the Chiefs D, only scoring three points for the rest of the game. The Raiders lost, but still sit at 4-2, and are tied for first with the Broncos in the division, so no one is giving up on this team, but it definitely shows that they are not alone in the quest to take down the Broncos. The defense continues to be just awful despite all of the off-season acquisitions, and if they don’t improve then it won’t matter that the Raiders have one of the most talented passing offenses in the NFL. They will play in Jacksonville against the 2-3 Jaguars as they try to get back on the right track.