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Alastair Talbot

NFL Thanksgiving Week Grades AFC West: The Chiefs haven't played up to par this year but will anyone step up and take the division crown from the Super Bowl Champions?

How have the teams in the AFC West performed as we enter the final stretch of the season?

The AFC West has seen its usual mix of highs and lows, with the Kansas City Chiefs standing out as the clear frontrunner. However, the Los Angeles Chargers have had a remarkable turnaround, while the Denver Broncos and Las Vegas Raiders have experienced a rollercoaster of results.

The division continues to evolve as these teams try to find their footing in a highly competitive conference.
With the division title barely within reach for some and playoff hopes hanging by a thread for others, it’s been a season full of twists and turns.

  • Kansas City Chiefs v Las Vegas RaidersGetty Images Sport

    Kansas City Chiefs (10-1)

    The Chiefs have been the class of the AFC West for several years, and while their dominance has been evident, 2024 has seen a slightly different flavor of success. Despite their stellar 10-1 record, they have not been the offensive juggernaut fans are used to seeing.

    Patrick Mahomes has had some uncharacteristic struggles at times, and the team has only surpassed 30 points in a game once. Still, the Chiefs' defense has stepped up in a big way, and their ability to win close games speaks to their resilience.

    Coach Andy Reid continues to get the best out of his squad, and their special teams have provided crucial momentum.

    Grade: A-

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  • Los Angeles Chargers Justin Herbert 2024Getty Images

    Los Angeles Chargers (7-4)

    The Chargers have made significant strides under new head coach Jim Harbaugh, transforming from a team that struggled to find consistency into a contender. After a five-game losing streak last season, they’ve turned things around dramatically, featuring a balanced offense and stingy defense.

    Justin Herbert’s steady play and the emergence of a strong ground game have helped them win more games than expected. Harbaugh’s influence has been felt across the board, with the Chargers limiting opponents to under 20 points in every win.

    This team’s physicality and discipline have made them a dangerous opponent.

    Grade: B+

  • Denver Broncos v Las Vegas RaidersGetty Images Sport

    Denver Broncos (7-5)

    While the Broncos’ record is a far cry from what they had hoped for, there’s a noticeable shift in the team’s energy under head coach Sean Payton. The offense is evolving, with rookie quarterback Bo Nix improving week by week, and the defense has had its moments of brilliance.

    Denver's resilience was evident in their dominant 38-6 victory over the Atlanta Falcons, which was followed by a impressive win over the Raiders, after a heartbreaking loss to the Chiefs weeks before.

    However, inconsistency has held them back from truly contending. Still, their spirit and potential under Payton's guidance keep them in the conversation.

    Grade: B-

  • Denver Broncos v Las Vegas RaidersGetty Images Sport

    Las Vegas Raiders (2-9)

    The Raiders were hoping for a bounce-back year under head coach Antonio Pierce after a strong second half in 2023, but 2024 has been a struggle. Quarterback play continues to be a major issue, and despite a solid defense led by Maxx Crosby, the team has failed to generate consistent offense.

    With five straight losses and a 2-8 record, the Raiders have not shown the same level of progress that many had hoped for.

    The Raiders’ season has been defined by missed opportunities and underwhelming performances on both sides of the ball.

    Furthermore quarterback Gardner Minshew recently suffered a season-ending injury, painting an even darker picture for the Raiders.