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AFC west

Sporting News, The, Dec 27, 2004

DENVER BRONCOS

CB Willie Middlebrooks (knee) is out for the season, so rookie CB Roc Alexander is playing in the nickel and dime. Alexander is a swift and athletic player, but he's in over his head and gets caught out of position too often. Plus, the secondary has concerns beyond Alexander. CB Champ Bailey continues to run hot and cold. ... RG Cooper Carlisle is starting in place of Dan Neil (knee, groin). At 6-5, 295, Carlisle is bigger than Neil (6-2, 285). But Carlisle is not as quick or as athletic as Neil. Carlisle seems to be a much better run blocker than pass protector. His inexperience at guard had a lot to do with the six sacks of QB Jake Plummet in the loss to the Chiefs. YOUTH MOVEMENT: WR Triandos Luke is quietly having a successful rookie year. Luke had his most productive game of the season against the Chiefs, catching five passes for 40 yards. Luke has terrific hands, but his blocking must improve dramatically, and he must get stronger. He doesn't have Plummer's confidence yet as a go-to downfield receiver.--Patrick Saunders

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OAKLAND RAIDERS

Shane Lechler continues to be one of the league's top punters. He has become adept at pouching punts inside the opponents' 20 by employing the rugby-style kick introduced by Vikings P Darren Bennett. Lechler also is benefiting from losing about 20 pounds last offseason without sacrificing any strength. He now has more flexibility. ... RB J.R. Redmond has turned into the team's most versatile player in his second year with the Raiders. He gets occasional chances to carry the ball, is used as a receiver on key downs and is called on to be a lead blocker and kick returner. He has strengthened his hold on a spot for next season. YOUTH MOVEMENT: LB Sam Williams has emerged as a reliable starter in his second season after fighting through two major injuries, one each year, and a position change. He excels by using his long arms to fend off would-be blockers and his speed to chase down ballcarriers. His conversion from defensive end to linebacker, the position he played in college, has made him more comfortable in Oakland's defense.--Steve Corkran

SAN DIEGO CHARGERS

Injuries at receiver and bad weather have helped turn the Chargers back into a run-dominant team; RB LaDainian Tomlinson has four 100-yard efforts in the past five games. The team knows if it is to advance deep in the playoffs it will need to grind it out in poor conditions. In the snow and wind in last Sunday's win at Cleveland, the Chargers ran the ball on 34 of their final 35 plays and controlled the clock. ... WRs Keenan McCardell (hamstring) and Tim Dwight (toe) are hurting, so Kassim Osgood could take on a larger role. He isn't as polished as McCardell, but Osgood can use his 6-5 frame to make plays over most defensive backs. He has made big plays this season. YOUTH MOVEMENT: CB Drayton Florence stepped in for Sammy Davis (leg) and isn't likely to relinquish the job. Florence is bigger, faster and more physical than Davis. As a rookie, Florence didn't show much attention to detail, relying on athletic ability instead of technique. This year, his study habits have improved. Coach Marty Schottenheimer loves physical corners; Florence fits the mold.--Jim Trotter

KANSAS CITY CHIEFS

Rookie WR Samie Parker deserves more playing time. Parker is the only pure burner at receiver, an important quality on a team that depends on stretching the field. If he develops properly, the Chiefs won't have to use a premium pick on a receiver. ... The Chiefs have been forced to play more zone coverage, against the preference of coordinator Gunther Cunningham, because of the ineffectiveness of their cornerbacks, particularly William Bartee. The acquisition of a corner who can cover with a bump-and-run style has become a priority--unless the Chiefs want to play a style Cunningham isn't as comfortable with. YOUTH MOVEMENT: The team is frustrated with the slow development of CB Julian Battle, who has plenty of ability but is producing little. With Bartee and Dexter McCleon getting picked on, the Chiefs could use some help at cornerback, but Battle is offering none. Battle is a superb athlete but has trouble using his techniques. Earlier this season, he frequently was called for illegal contact and holding. He appears not to trust his ability.--Adam Teicher

AFC west

Sporting News, The, Dec 27, 2004

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