Broncos @ Chiefs Preview – 5 Steps to Win the Game

I’m a superstitious guy, and we haven’t won a game since I did this pre-Steelers. Sorry, fans, these past few weeks are all on me.

Shortened a bit because I still like the “Around the Web” and don’t just want to recycle the same stuff.

1. Block the defensive ends

Jared Allen and Tamba Hali are disrupting O-Line after O-Line. Word on the street is that LT Matt Lepsis got called out in a team meeting by coach. He will need to play much better against these guys, along with Erik Pears, to protect Jay Cutler and his banged-up leg. If we can keep a pocket for Cutler we will win. It’s that simple. Bring Daniel Graham inside to help, and have Cecil Sapp ready to pick up a blitz as well. But do better than last week. Our receivers and tight ends will give their secondary fits. If we protect Cutler we will win.

2. Push up the middle

Catching a theme? The middle 3 of the offensive line need to play better, both in protection and run blocking. Montrae Holland, I know you’re new here and all, but I’m crossing my fingers you’ll be a leader for our young guys and show them how to plow defenders.

3. Chiefs have weapons? Not at quarterback.

Blink and the Chiefs have more playmakers than we might be able to handle. Tony Gonzalez has always been a factor in these games. Rookie WR Dwayne Bowe exploded earlier but has quieted as of late, and ex-Bronco-with-a-grudge Eddie Kennison returns to the field for the first time since his Week 1 injury.

Thanks goodness it’s Damon Huard throwing to them. The Chiefs offensive line is not what it once was, and we need to get pressure with our four man front. Elvis Dumervil needs to tally his eighth sack (this time without a facemask penalty), and can Simeon Rice put his money where his mouth is?!

4. Big Hall Returns

I heard the Chiefs are missing those long Hall kickoff and punt returns in Arrowhead after they traded Dante in the offseason. Don’t worry, Chiefs fan — you’ll still see long (Andre) Hall returns this Sunday.

5. Stop the run

No Larry Johnson doesn’t necessarily mean no problem. We need to shut down the run, without our corners, so we don’t get snakebitten AGAIN on the play action pass. If we can play physical, knock-them-out football, I don’t see these runners doing anything. Priest Holmes isn’t going to play physical; I don’t know what to expect from their rookie but I just think we can keep this offensive line from making holes and keep their runner in their backfield.

On to victory!