Dissecting the AFC West: Kansas City Chiefs, Denver Broncos Will Contend

(Photo by Kevin Terrell/Getty Images)

In his stead, Michael Bush hopes to become the star among the Raiders' running backs this season. But many would not be surprised if he is traded away before the beginning of the season. Justin Fargas lead the team with 853 rushing yards last season, and without a chance to overtake him, Bush may find his way out of Oakland. Running backs are a precious commodity, and Bush's value rises that much more when he's running like he did at the end of the season in 2008.

With three backs sharing game time, Oakland could eventually present a running force as potent as the one for the New York Giants last year; which saw Brandon Jacobs, Derrick Ward, and Ahmad Bradshaw trading highlights.

JaMarcus Russell benefits greatly in this position. With a strong running game to support the offense, passing the ball would become much easier and more effective. Russell has struggled through his first two seasons with Oakland. His career began with a long rookie holdout, and he didn't begin to really play until the 2008 season. Putting up 2,423 yards, thirteen touchdowns, and only eight interceptions, Russell certainly made his case to remain the starter for the Raiders.

The staff of the Raiders' gives Russell another target to aim at this year in Darrius Heyward-Bey. Al Davis continued with his trend to pick the fastest player on the market, and certainly gets that in Darrius. Whether or not he becomes a big threat in the Raiders' passing game is unsure, but his speed will certainly help decide.

The Raiders, out of all the teams in the AFC West, I believe, have the most ground to cover for this season. They posted a better record than the Chiefs in 2008, but I picture them at the bottom of the division this year.

San Diego Chargers:    12-4

Denver Broncos:            9-7

Kansas City Chiefs:       7-9

Oakland Raiders:           5-11

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