AFC west.(NFL)(American Football Conference )

DENVER BRONCOS PLAYOFF READINESS ***

PLAYOFF PROGNOSIS: Pro Bowl CB Champ Bailey and Pro Bowl S John Lynch have improved the defense, but that still might not be enough to slow down QB Peyton Manning and the Colts. Without having to face a great pass rush, Manning will have time to find his receivers downfield. Bailey won't be able to run stride for stride with WR Marvin Harrison forever. Denver's best defense might be its offense. QB Jake Plummer threw for a franchise record 4,089 yards this season but also threw 20 interceptions. A potent running game sets up Plummer's rollouts and play-action throws. FINAL GRADES: Offense: B-. There were too many turnovers and red zone failures, Defense: B, It didn't make enough big plays. Special teams: D+, K Jason Elam was excellent; the punting and coverage were subpar. Coaching: B+, Few can match Mike Shanahan as an offensive game planner.--Patrick Saunders

KANSAS CITY CHIEFS

OFFSEASON GAME PLAN: The priority is fixing a defense that was worse in 2004 than in 2003. The unit could use line help, particularly a top pass rusher, but E Jared Allen's emergence lessens the need. The Chiefs must find a middle linebacker; they can't count on MLB Mike Maslowski (knee) returning healthy or MLB Kawika Mitchell making dramatic improvement. There also is no guarantee OLB Shawn Barber (knee) will be ready for the start of next season. The Chiefs must add cornerbacks who are capable of playing coordinator Gunther Cunningham's preferred bump-and-run coverage. On offense, a young wide receiver would offset the possible loss of Johnnie Morton, who could become too expensive. FINAL GRADES: Offense: B+. It struggled to score in the clutch during a miserable first half. Defense: F. It allowed too many big pass plays. Special teams: C-. Kicks and punts cost the team field position. Coaching: D. The failure to make defensive changes falls on Dick Vermeil, but he rallied the team after its bad start.--Adam Teicher

OAKLAND RAIDERS

OFFSEASON GAME PLAN: Coach Norv Turner needs to finish the offensive makeover by finding a top running back. Then he can focus on the defense. He must decide whether ...