2008 AFC West Best/Worst Scenarios

2008 AFC West Best/Worst Scenarios

Sep 7, 2008 Derek J Griebenow

The San Diego Chargers are clearly the class of the AFC West. Can another team from the west at least make it interesting and win some games?

The following is the order the west will finish and the best and worst case scenarios for the AFC West teams in 2008.

1) San Diego Chargers

Best Case Scenarios

  • Receiver Chris Chambers (acquired at 2007 trade deadline) becomes number one receiving threat for quarterback Philip Rivers.
  • Rivers continues picking apart opposing defenses.
  • The defense improves upon 15th ranking of a year ago.
  • Tight end Antonio Gates returns from injury (foot) and continues to score touchdowns (9 in ‘07).
  • Running back LaDainian Tomlinson continues his dominance of opposing defenses.

Worst Case Scenarios

  • Linebacker Shawne Merriman’s injury (knee) keeps him from performing at an elite level weakening defense.
  • Gates can’t resume his explosiveness after foot surgery.
  • Running back Darren Sproles can’t replace departed Michael Turner as LT’s backup.
  • Receiver Vincent Jackson can’t compliment Chambers and be productive.

2008 Chargers Prediction

The class of the AFC West by far, San Diego will have no problem taking the division. They proved they can beat Indianapolis, so New England only stands in their way of a championship. With Chambers playing a full year in San Diego, the passing game should compliment LT quite nicely. Look for thirteen to fourteen wins in 2008 and a possible Super Bowl ring.

2) Oakland Raiders

Best Case Scenarios

  • Second year quarterback JaMarcus Russell performs up to first round pick potential.
  • Receiver Javon Walker avoids another injury plagued season and in viable deep threat for Russell.
  • Rookie running back Darren McFadden puts up Adrian Peterson type numbers in his first year.
  • Cornerbacks Nnamdi Asomugha and DeAngelo Hall combine to improve last years pass defense (31st versus pass in ‘07).

Worst Case Scenarios

  • Russell isn’t ready to start in the NFL.
  • McFadden doesn’t produce in first year.
  • Walker misses playing time leaving Russell nobody to throw to.
  • The defense is still a liability versus the pass.

2008 Raiders Prediction

With the weapons at Russell’s disposal he should have a decent year at quarterback. The run offense was ranked number six in the NFL and should only get better with McFadden on board. For a team that won only four games last year, the additions they made should qualify them to go 8-8 in 2008.

3) Denver Broncos

Best Case Scenarios

  • Quarterback Jay Cutler continues to get better (3,497 yards, 20 touchdowns in ’07).
  • Running back Selvin Young continues a long list of Broncos 1,000 yard backs.
  • Receiver Brandon Marshall duplicates last seasons numbers (102 receptions, 1,325 yards, 7 touchdowns).
  • The defense performs better versus the rush (30th in ’07).

Worst Case Scenarios

  • Marshall’s off-season injury (arm) lingers all year limiting production.
  • Young isn’t the back the Broncos thought.
  • The defense still can’t limit opposing running backs.

2008 Broncos Prediction

With the AFC West full of dominant running backs, stopping the run will be key to any success in 2008. Cutler needs to play mistake free and Young needs to prove he is an every down back in the NFL. The Broncos should finish no better than last seasons 7-9 record.

4) Kansas City Chiefs

Best Case Scenarios

  • The offensive line plays efficiently opening up running attack.
  • Young quarterback Brodie Croyle can lead offense effectively.
  • Running back Larry Johnson’s play returns to that of an elite NFL back.
  • Dwayne Bowe can carry receiving load since depth is weak at receiving position.
  • Rookie defensive tackle Glenn Dorsey helps improve on last seasons dead last ranking (32nd) versus the rush.

Worst Case Scenario

  • Dorsey proves a bust and rush defense still stinks.
  • The defense as a unit still can’t stop anyone (31st overall in ‘07).
  • Larry Johnson continues to battle injuries and a weak offensive line and is unproductive.
  • Quarterback issue remains unresolved.

2008 Chiefs Prediction

It’s clear that the Chiefs are in rebuild mode since most of their draft picks will be starting in ‘08. The quarterback play needs to be consistent as well as Johnson’s play for the Chiefs to be competitive. Don’t expect more than the four wins of 2007 in 2008.

The copyright of the article 2008 AFC West Best/Worst Scenarios in Football is owned by Derek J Griebenow. Permission to republish 2008 AFC West Best/Worst Scenarios in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
What do you think about this article?
NOTE: Because you are not a Suite101 member, your comment will be moderated before it is viewable.
post your comment
What is 4+10?

Comments

Dec 3, 2008 4:10 AM
Guest :
way to predict garbage idiot
1 Comment: