Written by Rohit Ghosh
Follow @rohitghosh on Twitter
AFC West: 2015 NFL Previews
AccuScore has picks against the spread and on totals for ALL games: ALL NFL Week 1 Picks and Updated Odds
Will offseason moves get Kansas City into the postseason?
The Chiefs spent quite a bit of money this past offseason to first re-sign pass rusher Justin Houston, and then add wide receiver Jeremy Maclin. Last season's losses to Tennessee and Oakland cost them when it came to making the postseason. Maclin's addition cannot be understated.
The receiving corps in 2014 had ZERO touchdown catches. Maclin may not be in Philly's free flowing offense any more, but his talent is a clear boost for the Chiefs' offense.
Manning-Kubiak
The 2015 season for Denver comes down to how great Peyton Manning can be. Trouble is, he first has to adjust to a new offensive system and coach in Gary Kubiak. There's no doubt the signing of Pro Bowl G Evan Mathis makes this season a true, win-or-go-home for Manning. The salary cut Manning took was the exact amount Mathis was signed for.
NFL Special: Use coupon code "NFLmonth" for 25% off membership (limited time offer): Click Here to become a member today!
The Melvin Gordon Era
San Diego's 2015 season - and how much success they ultimately have - will be largely determined by the weekly progression of rookie RB Melvin Gordon. As the second running back chosen in the draft, expectations for Gordon are high.
Establishing Gordon early on will benefit QB Philip Rivers later in the season.
Stat of the Day: Running back Danny Woodhead was stopped behind the line of scrimmage in just 2.8 percent of rushing attempts, best in the league.
Raiders with glimmer of hope
There seems to be a good amount of optimism surround the Oakland Raiders these days. QB Derek Carr had nice showing in his rookie season, throwing for 3,270 yards with 21 TDs and 12 INTs.
Throw in WR Amari Cooper and the potential ground attack with RB Latavius Murray, the Raiders have a nice little trio on offense.
What to Watch For: The biggest focus of improvement in 2015 has to be consistency on offense. In 2014 Oakland averaged a league-worst 4.5 yards per offensive play.
NFL Special: Use coupon code "NFLmonth" for 25% off membership (limited time offer): Click Here to become a member today!
Related:
2015 AFC North Preview
2015 NFC East Preview
2015 NFC South Preview
2015 AFC South Preview
2015 AFC East Preview
