As fortunate as Kansas City was to start 9-0 in 2003, it was nearly as unlucky in 2004, losing its first three games en route to a 7-9 finish. In the end, the Chiefs were never able to recover from the slow start, falling far short of realistic repeat divisional championship goals. The same problems that kept them from reaching the top the prior year affected them even more greatly last season, namely defense. That unit ranked 31st in total yardage, despite the return of longtime successful DC Gunther Cunningham. They were brutal against the pass, and forced 16 less turnovers than they did in 2003. As good as the offense was (30.2 PPG & 418.3 YPG), it was not perfect enough and often found itself rallying from behind. Looking at it from a positive standpoint, Kansas City won four of its last five games to close the season, serving notice of a potential return to the top of the AFC West in 2005.

The Chiefs won’t be accused of not trying to bolster their inept defense this year, as unlike last offseason when they just changed leadership, the team has brought in a host of talented players. The biggest names on that list are top draft pick LB Derrick Johnson of Texas, and free agents LB Kendrell Bell (PIT), DB Sammy Knight (MIA), and DE Carlos Hall (TEN). Johnson and Bell are defensive playmakers the likes of which haven’t roamed Arrowhead Stadium since the days of Derrick Thomas. On offense, the changes are subtle, but the big question is once again the health of RB Priest Holmes. Subs Larry Johnson and now departed Derrick Blaylock put up huge efforts in his absence a year ago though, so that concern should be minimized.

Cunningham’s first season back in charge of the defense here was a major disappointment, but there are encouraging signs indicating potential for a resurgence on that side of the ball. If that is indeed the case, the Chiefs could be among the most dangerous teams in the league again in 2005. More than likely though, that unit will continue to struggle against a schedule loaded with great opposing passers. Playoffs are a strong possibility, but not a lock.

StatFox Power Rating: 24(6 of 32)

2005 Schedule Rating: (6 toughest of 32)

2004:(SU 7-9)(ATS 6-10)

L3 years:(SU 28-21)(ATS 25-23-1)

Coach Dick Vermeil: (SU 34-31) (ATS 32-31-2)

Trends by month

September

Kansas City is 18-4-1 ATS in home openers (9/11)

Raiders are 3-9 ATS when K.C. visits (9/18)

Chiefs are 0-4 ATS at Denver (9/26)

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October

Kansas City is 9-2 ATS in October

K.C. is 10-4 ATS in October home off home win (? 10/16)

Chiefs are 8-2 ATS in 1st of BB road games (10/23)

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November

Oakland is 4-1-1 ATS in Kansas City (11/6)

Chiefs are 12-23 vs. number in RG off division game ( 11/13)

K.C. is 5-21-1 ATS vs. AFC East (11/27)

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December

Kansas City is 12-2 OVER in December

K.C. is a combined 0-6 ATS @ Dallas & @NY Giants (12/11 & 12/17)

Chiefs are 8-2 SU in final home games (1/1)

Top Teaser Angle:

Kansas City is 42-7 vs. 6-pt. teaser in HG vs. AFC West

Top Money Line Angle:

Kansas City is 22-2 (+17.65 units) against ML in HG off road win.

Top Totals Angle:

Kansas City is 11-2 OVER off home win by 10+ points

Pre-Season O/U wins:

UNDER 9 -130 @www.BetCris.com

Fantasy Player Must: Trent Green

Fantasy Player Bust: Eddie Kennison