AFC west.(NFL)(American Football Conference, football teams' evaluation)

DENVER BRONCOS

WR Ashley Lelie has become a huge big-play threat. He has learned how to use his body-and push off without getting caught-on deep balls. That enables QB lake Plummer to take more chances downfield because he knows Lelie has a good chance of coming down with the ball.... Rookie WR Darius Watts has terrific skills. He's fast and elusive and knows how to get open. He's also raw and inconsistent. He has dropped a number of big passes, including an end zone drop against the Raiders that could have given the Broncos a victory. And, like some rookies, he seems to be a bit overwhelmed by the speed of the NFL, which can lead to mistakes. THIRD QUARTER GRADES: Offense: C+. Red zone failures and Plummer's interceptions hurt when it counts. Defense: B-. It lacks a consistent pass rusher and gives up too many big plays downfield. Special teams: D. P Micah Knorr has been inconsistent, costing Denver field position, and the return game is ordinary. Coaching: B-. Game plans have been solid, but third-down failures, red zone troubles and too many penalties reveal a lack of discipline.--Patrick Saunders

KANSAS CITY CHIEFS

The Chiefs should play RB Larry Johnson more in the final four games if Priest Holmes isn't fully healthy. Johnson, given a considerable workload in Sunday's win at Oakland, gained 118 yards in 20 carries. There's little to gain by playing RB Derrick Blaylock because he could leave after the season.... OL Jordan Black got his first extended playing time at right tackle against the Raiders and responded well. The Chiefs hope Black can develop into a reliable tackle but think he will be better at guard long-term because pass protection is not his strength. Black might start this week if Chris Bober (toe) isn't ready.... Look for Dick Vermeil to coach for one more year. He hasn't done his best coaching job this season, but it's not because the game has passed him by. Expect him to bounce back next season. THIRD QUARTER GRADES: Offense: B+. This potent unit needs to score on more late drives. Defense: D. Coordinator Gunther Cunningham has made little impact. Special teams: D+. The return and coverage units aren't special. Coaching: D+. Vermeil gets some blame for not improving defensive personnel.--Adam Teicher

OAKLAND RAIDERS

RB Tyrone Wheatley (hamstring) could miss the rest of the ...