NFL teams
Field Yates, ESPN Insider 9y

Chiefs a threat to Broncos, Pats

NFL

At this time last season, the Kansas City Chiefs were 9-1 and in first place in their division. Through 10 games in 2014, the Chiefs are 7-3, tied with Denver in the AFC West standings but technically second by virtue of losing to the Broncos in Denver back in Week 2. And yet, despite an inferior record and spot in the division standings, there's little doubt that the Chiefs are a better team now than they were at this juncture of the season in 2013.

Catalyzed by a strong rushing attack, a mistake-free quarterback and a relentless pass rush, the Chiefs have emerged as an AFC contender. Here's why they could create trouble for either the Patriots or Broncos in the postseason.

Their ground game is tough to stop

Since returning from an injury in Week 5, running back Jamaal Charles has been on a torrential pace against terrific competition. Four of the Chiefs' seven opponents during that stretch have ranked among the NFL's top 10 rushing defenses, but Kansas City has remained undeterred in featuring Charles.

^ Back to Top ^