Week 11 is here, and there is a new team in first place in the AFC West. With a decisive 41-14 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders, the Kansas City Chiefs reclaimed first place in the division.
However, the division is still up for grabs, with seven games still left to play. All four teams are within one win of tying for the divisional lead. While the Broncos have a bye this week, the NFL betting lines show that the other three teams have a challenging game in Week 11.
Read on to see which team ultimately will win the AFC West. Then, explore breakdowns of each team and how their schedule stacks up in the latter half of the season.
Kansas City Chiefs
The Chiefs are a popular pick to win the division. They have won three straight games and have reached two consecutive Super Bowls.
However, the Chiefs’ remaining schedule is demanding. They play the 7-2 Cowboys this week and have four remaining games against AFC West opponents. The final two games are against tough opponents in the Steelers and Bengals.
Los Angeles Chargers
The Chargers are currently sitting one-half game behind the Chiefs. However, the good news for Chargers fans is that they have the easiest schedule amongst the four teams.
They have games against the Giants and Texans that are both winnable. They have two division games against the Broncos and Bengals, two teams that haven’t won more than five games. They also have a matchup against the Chiefs in Los Angeles in which they could retake first place.
Las Vegas Raiders
I’m having a hard time seeing the Raiders as AFC West contenders after their disappointing showing against the Chiefs. In addition to the loss, they also have team drama surrounding Henry Ruggs. The star sophomore wide receiver was arrested for driving under the influence resulting in Tina Tintor’s death. Ruggs is now out for the season and faces extensive jail time.
The Raiders hope to replace Ruggs with the recently signed veteran Desean Jackson. However, the team has a demanding remaining schedule, with only one opponent having a losing record.
Denver Broncos
Denver has been a pleasant surprise this season.
The team has a real chance to stun the NFL world and take the division. However, they have five games remaining against opponents within the division.
The Broncos control their destiny because of their remaining schedule. Denver also has one game remaining against the league’s only winless team, the Detroit Lions.
Their remaining strength of schedule is in the middle of the pack league-wide. Unlike the Raiders and Chargers, the Broncos have a favorable point differential. As a result, they need to be taken seriously in the division hunt.
Which Team Will Win the AFC West?
The division is up for grabs, and any team is capable of emerging on top. The Chiefs have big-game experience, and their routing of the Raiders suggests they are the new favorite. However, the Chargers and Broncos’ favorable remaining schedule puts them in contention as well.
Who do you think will win the AFC West? Sign up for an account on BetMGM’s online sports betting site to place your bets on who will win this division and all the games for this NFL season.
NFL Odds From Your Phone
You can bet on NFL odds from your phone with mobile sports betting. From the BetMGM Sportsbook app, you have access to updated odds, live NFL betting, and more. Download the app and get closer to the action today!
