Turning Point?

It was week 9 of the 2007 season.  The KC Chefs faced the Green Bay Packers in Arrowhead.  The Chefs entered the game with a 4-3 record looking to go 2 games over .500 on the season.  The Chefs held the lead going into the second half, but Packers QB Brett Farve engineering a comeback to win the game.  The Chefs were 4-4 and finished the season 4-12.  That was a turning point game in the franchise.  The team went on to lose 36 of their next 42 games.

On Thursday evening, Green Bay again visited Arrowhead stadium.  This time the stakes were much lower.  It was the final preseason game for each team.  Could it have been another turning point for the KC Chefs?  I think so.  I will continue to say the KC Chefs will do the unthinkable, and win 8 games this year.  My reasons are: 1) they have a very fortunate schedule, playing most of the leagues doormats, and... Get this.  2) They are a better team this year.

The Chefs are a better defensive team.  They are hitting, tackling and pressuring the quarterback much better that in the past few years.  The one negative from the preseason is turnovers.  They managed only one.  With the offensive coughing up the ball liberally, this will hurt them and probably cost them 2 wins in 2010.  But the main point is that this defense is the best we have seen in many years.

While the defense is better, this offense will not be confused with the Indy Colts.  They will struggle to score points all season.  I expect they will only average 20 or so per game.  But when the defense plays well, 20 may be enough.  Matt Cassel, the 65 million man, will get better as the season progresses.  His poor play during the preseason cannot continue.  He has more talent than shown so far.

Regardless of the season record, I am certain of a few things. Dexter McCluster, Javier Arenas, and Eric Berry will be fun to watch.  Personally, I can watch any mediocre team as long as they are exciting at times.  This year's Chefs will be fun to watch.