One of the most important AFC games heading in to this weekend will feature two division rivals at opposite ends of the spectrum in terms of momentum, in a crucial battle that will have major playoff implications. The Kansas City Chiefs will not compete in this year’s postseason, but after ending the Green Bay Packers’ run at perfection with a 19-14 win last week, they will have the opportunity to play spoiler once again against the AFC West rival Oakland Raiders as sports betting favorites at home.
Oakland Raiders @ Kansas City Chiefs
Saturday December 24, 2011 – 1:00 PM ET
Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City, Missouri
NFL Betting Lines: Kansas City Chiefs – 1
The Raiders played spoiler against themselves in their collapse against the Detroit Lions last week, a game in which they led by 13 with five minutes to go in the fourth quarter before allowing consecutive touchdowns to lose in regulation. Oakland is still just one game back with two to play, but this is now a must-win situation.
NFL Betting Preview: Oakland Raiders
With the Denver Broncos falling to the New England Patriots, the Raiders were in perfect position to bounce back in the AFC West, five minutes away from moving back in to a tie for top spot. Now, head coach Hue Jackson will have to find a way to get his team to refocus and prepare to finish strong, a tough task for any coach after the way they lost their last game. Quarterback Carson Palmer threw for 367 yards and a touchdown against the Lions, so he isn’t the problem, but the Raiders will need more from their rushing attack, and running back Michael Bush in particular. It is hard to place blame on the offense after the defense gave up 14 points in five minutes, but everyone will need to be better with their season on the line.
NFL Betting Preview: Kansas City Chiefs
While Chiefs’ fans won’t get to watch their team play in the postseason, they have to appreciate that they have already watched their team pull off the biggest upset of the season by ending the Packers’ perfect run. Kansas City was able to hold Aaron Rodgers to a less than 50-percent completion rate, while recording four sacks and three tackles for a loss. Kyle Orton proved that he deserved the start by throwing for 299 yards without turning the ball over, and he looked as confident as he has ever been throughout his career. The Chiefs concentrated on controlling possession and playing smart football under interim coach Romeo Crennel, and they will be a legitimate threat again this week as they look to do the same again.
NFL Betting Preview: Outlook & Pick
The sportsbooks have the Chiefs listed as favorites after they beat the Packers, but they could have trouble doing it again after such an emotional win. The Raiders will lay it all on the line in a must-win game, and should be able to pull this one out in what should be a close battle until the end.
NFL Betting Pick: Oakland Raiders