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AFC west

Sporting News, The, Sept 30, 2005

DENVER BRONCOS

Matt Lepsis, who switched to left tackle last season, has shown he has quick enough feet to handle the position. Though he is undersized (6-4, 290), Lepsis is one of the strongest players on the team. His quickness fits the team's running game, and he is adept at cutting off backside pursuit with cut blocks. But when his footwork is not good, he can be overpowered by physical defensive ends.... The coaching staff has worked with DE Trevor Pryce to expand his pass-rush moves as he switches from the right side to the left. The goat is to get him to use his long arms to keep linemen away and complement his elite quickness with some power-rushing moves. SEE A DIFFERENT GAME: KR/PR Darrent Williams never studied special teams game tape in college and instead relied on instinct. But the rookie has begun studying tendencies, such as whether an opponent "squeezes down" in coverage or is a disciplined lane team. He also has attempted to pinpoint the top performers on opposing coverage units and the best method to evade them. He ran tentatively in the preseason but now has found a comfort level.--Lee Rasizer

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KANSAS CITY CHIEFS

The Chiefs will be able to cover the loss of DT Ryan Sims, who is expected to be out at least six weeks with a foot injury, over the short term but could be in trouble down the road. John Browning could adequately replace Sims as a starter, but Browning's durability is a question. The Chiefs like to rotate their linemen, and that's where Sims' injury could hurt. Junior Slavii isn't ready to play a lot. DE Jimmy Wilkerson has a solid understanding of the system and has played some tackle, but he's a better fit outside and his technique needs refinement. The team might need to sign a veteran.... Former starting OLB Shawn Barber (knee) might struggle to get playing time when he returns at midseason. Kendrell Bell has Barber's starting spot and is unlikely to relinquish it. Rookie OLB Derrick Johnson is too valuable to bench. SEE A DIFFERENT GAME: The Chiefs have unveiled a 3-4 defense because it fits their personnel; they're thin on the line and deep at linebacker. They've used the 3-4 only as a change of pace, but that could change. The move would benefit Bell, who excelled in the 3-4 with the Steelers.--Adam Teicher

SAN DIEGO CHARGERS

The offensive line is full of holes. Opponents have been able to get to QB Drew Brees and RB LaDainian Tomlinson in the backfield without applying all-out blitzes. The starting five is the same as last season's, so the scheme might be at fault. Opponents have recognized when the Chargers are a man short on one side and have sent defenders untouched toward Brees and Tomlinson.... There is a mental tether between TE Antonio Gates and Braes, who trusts Gates so much he will throw to him even when Gates is tightly covered. Gates' size and strength allow him to fend off defenders and make plays. Brees also knows Gates will prevent interceptions by knocking away uncatchable balls. SEE A DIFFERENT GAME: The Chargers seem unable to decide what to do on offense. The team is barely using the quick pass that served it well last season, and Tomlinson has yet to catch a pass. Brees spread the ball around last season, but he seems to be relying more heavily on WR Keenan McCardell and Gates.--Kevin Acee

OAKLAND RAIDERS

Second-year C Jake Grove figures to be a mainstay on the offensive line for years. He is smart, strong, fundamentally sound and tenacious. He has no glaring weaknesses and makes few mistakes. He handles his responsibilities like a player with more experience. Grove, who played guard last season and beat out Adam Treu in the preseason, was solid in his first two games at center, though he was pushed around some in his first game and had a holding penalty in Week 2.... Once WR Doug Gabriel (finger) returns to action, he likely will alternate with Ronald Curry as the third and fourth receivers, with Alvis Whitted moving to No. 5. Gabriel also has game-changing ability as a kick returner. SEE A DIFFERENT GAME: OL Brad Badger's versatility likely cost him the starting right guard spot, Coach Norv Turner opted for Ran Stone over Badger at right guard once it became apparent in the preseason that the two were close in ability. Stone can play only guard, but Badger can replace anyone on the line except Grove. This gives Turner versatility on his bench without detracting from the guard spot.--Steve Corkran

AFC west

Sporting News, The, Sept 30, 2005

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