The Chiefs meet the Broncos in a very meaningful game for K.C., but not really for Denver. After limiting opposing teams' offense in the extreme, the Chiefs have given up two high totals in three games, and seen their defensive stats plummet. As much as the Chiefs need a win, this is also their last chance to right the ship on defense before the post season. The good news is that they face Drew Lock, rather than Burrow or Herbert.

While this is not a really meaningful game for the Broncos other than Lock, it is a home game, so look for some effort. The Denver defense stumbled last week but has held most teams to under 20 points, or in the case of the Chiefs last time out, 22 points. Their offense has stumbled for more than a week, averaging only 12 points for the last 3 games.

Both teams appear to be over the worst of covid, touch wood, but the Chiefs are missing their best RB, and the Broncos, their QB and other significant players. Look for the Chiefs to focus on defense in this game. Look for a return to the tight defense they showed for much of the year, with the Broncos struggling to put points on the board. If the Broncos do play all out, they have the potential to slow the Chiefs' potentially explosive offense. I am wagering on the total to go under.