The Kansas City Chiefs are aiming for their 11th consecutive season with ten or more wins, while also looking to extend their dominance in the AFC West, having secured nine straight division titles. According to ESPN BET, the Chiefs have a projected win total of 11.5, tied for the highest in the league alongside the Baltimore Ravens, Buffalo Bills, and Philadelphia Eagles. They remain the favorites in the division at -120, but competition is heating up from the Los Angeles Chargers and the Denver Broncos, both of whom made the playoffs last season.
The Chargers and Broncos have identical projected win totals of 9.5 and are -130 to reach the playoffs again. Meanwhile, the Las Vegas Raiders are considered long shots, with +340 odds to make the postseason. Despite their challenges, there is growing excitement around rookies like Brock Bowers and Ashton Jeanty, the latter being favored for the Offensive Rookie of the Year at +360.
Broncos and Chargers Poised for Success
The Denver Broncos won 10 games last season and have made significant roster improvements. Analyst Matt Bowen highlights how rookie running back RJ Harvey and tight end Evan Engram enhance the team’s offensive capabilities. The Broncos also fortified their defense with key players like linebacker Dre Greenlaw and safety Talanoa Hufanga. With quarterback Bo Nix entering his second season under head coach Sean Payton, expectations are high as the team aims to surpass their projected win total.
Pamela Maldonado adds that the Broncos’ record last year, particularly their 1-6 performance in one-score games, indicates they could be on the verge of a turnaround. With an elite offensive line and a manageable schedule, the Broncos are favored in 12 of their 17 games. If Nix improves, Denver could eliminate their close-game struggles, setting the stage for a successful campaign.
The Chargers are also in the spotlight, with quarterback Justin Herbert coming off a strong season where he threw for 3,870 yards, securing 23 touchdowns against only three interceptions. Eric Moody notes that the addition of explosive wide receiver Tre Harris and tight end Tyler Conklin, along with the return of Keenan Allen, strengthens their offense. The Chargers’ offensive line remains resilient, and with Herbert’s proven track record, they are well-positioned for a playoff run.
Raiders Seek to Surprise in Competitive Division
The Las Vegas Raiders, who have not secured a division title since 2002, are looking to shake things up this season. With Geno Smith at quarterback, the team gains stability and efficiency, making them a potential surprise for bettors. Analysts believe that Jeanty’s dynamic running abilities, coupled with Bowers’ impressive rookie records, will provide the balance needed to elevate the Raiders’ offense.
Head coach Pete Carroll’s energetic approach and defensive end Maxx Crosby’s potential for a bounce-back season could propel the Raiders beyond expectations. Currently, ESPN Analytics gives them a 23% chance to make the playoffs, ranking them 27th in the league.
As the season approaches, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how the AFC West unfolds. With the Chiefs striving to maintain their reign and the Chargers and Broncos looking to capitalize on their recent successes, the division promises to deliver thrilling matchups and unexpected twists.
