Kansas City Chiefs vs. Denver Broncos: Three Key Matchups

Fallen from the early glory of a 6-0 start, the Denver Broncos are looking to right the ship after losing four of their last five.

Despite a wretched performance against the San Diego Chargers in Week 12, the Kansas City Chiefs have won two of their last three and look to build on what they’ve done right.

The two teams square off in Week 13, with a number of intriguing matchups taking center stage.

Elvis Dumervil vs. Branden Albert

Denver’s Dumervil has exploded onto the scene this season. Dumervil has proven he's an effective pass rusher for the past three years, but in this, his fourth season, he is off the charts, collecting 14 sacks through 11 games.

Kansas City left tackle Branden Albert can expect a handful from the pass rush of outside linebacker Dumervil.

Albert is an interesting case. Touted as one of the most athletically gifted offensive linemen, and possibly possessing the biggest upside of any in the 2008 draft class, Albert is Kansas City’s cornerstone left tackle.

While it is clear Albert has a place starting on the line there have been recurring questions as to just where he is best suited to play. Many theorize on his movement to right tackle, or even his college position of guard.

His ability to marginalize Dumervil will continue to tell the tale of whether Albert is indeed the foundation of KC’s line, or simply a key building block.

Brandon Marshall vs. Brandon Flowers and the Chiefs' secondary

The dagger to the Chiefs' heart has been the big pass play. Week after week it appears customary for Kansas City to have most of its yards surrendered on a couple of plays. Brandon Marshall is a definite pro-bowl talent who has found his stride midseason, following contract disputes in the offseason.

However, with Kyle Orton as the Bronco quarterback, some of the down-the-field possibilities are limited.

It is Marshall’s ability to win jump balls in the 20-30 yard range, and his skill at breaking tackles, which make him a threat. Chiefs cornerback Brandon Flowers happens to be one of the best tacklers in the game for his position, so Marshall can be held in check on many short-yardage passes.

Still, look for the Chiefs' secondary to be exposed as safeties Mike Brown and Jon McGraw lack ideal closing speed and have been suspect tackling in the open field. Stopping Marshall is a job for the entire secondary, but look for Flowers to frustrate the talented receiver on screens and slants.

However, if Marshall is lined up against opposite corner Brandon Carr, look for those same routes to be exploited for big gains, because Carr has struggled covering the short passing game.

Kansas City and Denver vs. Self-fulfilling prophecies

Which team believes it is capable of winning? A team develops a winning identity by winning close games and learning how to win. This means an ability to win by coming from behind, by maintaining a lead, or playing the clock to one’s advantage in a contest with many lead changes.

Regardless of the kind of victory, great teams possess a mentality no matter the score and no matter the matchup. Given the recent meltdown of Denver, and the nature in which many shrug off the Chiefs' ability to compete, it is easy for either franchise to fall victim to how the media paints its portrait.

One of these teams will take offense at the nonchalant way in which they are both disregarded as subpar teams, and with a chip on its shoulder, will rise to the occasion. Rather than fall victim to the scrutiny and assume the negative perceptions as an actual identity, both teams are looking to defy outsider views and adamantly declare their worth.

This game is sure to be a heated affair.

Fantasy tip of the week: Matt Cassel

The pairing of Champ Bailey and Dre Bly was arguably the best tandem of corners in the NFL.

With Bly gone, Bailey plays opposite veteran journeyman Andre’ Goodman. Despite playing well, Goodman is a clear downgrade.

Denver has also been known to bring in veteran safeties that still have something left in the tank. First John Lynch played this role and now it’s Brian Dawkins. Dawkins is as disruptive as ever since leaving the Philadelphia Eagles for Denver, but is out due to injury.

With Denver sure to key on running back Jamaal Charles given his recent success, look for Cassel to utilize his assortment of receivers and put up some solid numbers. On the low end, he is good for a couple hundred yards and a pair of touchdowns.