Chiefs, Broncos meet in epic AFC West showdown

Patrick Mahomes is the reigning MVP, but on Sunday, he’ll square off against a young, hot signal-caller that once grew up with aspirations of playing for the Chiefs, although he’s set to play against them, for the first time in his career.

Dec 8, 2019; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots middle linebacker Kyle Van Noy (53) tries to tackle Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) during the second half at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Paul Rutherford-USA TODAY Sports

Broncos quarterback Drew Lock has been a pleasant surprise for the team this season, and it’s crazy to think what the team’s record could be right now, had they have been starting him, instead of signing over-the-hill veteran quarterback Joe Flacco. At five wins and eight losses, the team could just as easily have an inverse record, fighting for a playoff start, had they have been starting Lock since Game 1. Still, he gives he franchise hope for the future, and also a possibility of general manager John Elway saving his job. The quarterback position has been the team’s main issue over the past few seasons since Peyton Manning retired, as the team’s defense has been stout, and the running game has been good.

Dec 8, 2019; Houston, TX, USA; Denver Broncos quarterback Drew Lock (3) runs with the ball during the third quarter against the Houston Texans at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

On the other side of the fence, it all starts and ends with Mahomes. He took the league by storm last year in his sophomore campaign, as he made a habit of making plays with his arm and legs, often looking unstoppable. This season has been a bit different, as injuries have taken a toll on him. He suffered a dislocated knee earlier in the season — an injury that would’ve sidelined others for possibly an entire year — and hasn’t really looked the same. Not only that, he’s been dealing with a hand injury as well. As such, all eyes will be on Mahomes in the team’s final three games of the season, to see what type of form he could be in heading into the playoffs. One thing’s for sure: Head coach Andy Reid will continue to be the masterful playcaller he’s always been, keeping opposing defenses off balance.

Dec 8, 2019; Houston, TX, USA; Denver Broncos quarterback Drew Lock (3) walks on the field after the game against the Houston Texans at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

The Chiefs are currently listed as 9.5-point favorites in the game, so make sure to get some action down at your favorite online casino with a sportsbook.

About Marcelo Villa

Marcelo is an associate editor at The Sports Daily, and has covered the San Diego Chargers for Bleacher Report. He also writes for Sportsdirect Inc.

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