Kansas City Chiefs vs. Denver Broncos: Breaking Down Kansas City's Game Plan

After a frustrating first week to open up the 2014 season, the Kansas City Chiefs are ready to put that game behind. But are they ready for what's ahead in the Denver Broncos?

The Chiefs have never defeated the Broncos since quarterback Peyton Manning signed with the team. Does Kansas City have what it takes to slow down the four-time NFL MVP?

In this slideshow, we will break down Kansas City's game plan going into Sunday's match.

Apply Pressure on Peyton Manning

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Even some of the best quarterbacks struggle and have a hard time responding if the defense is consistently applying pressure. The Kansas City Chiefs have the best pass-rushing duo in outside linebackers Justin Houston and Tamba Hali and must attack Manning from both sides.

Broncos offensive tackles Ryan Clady and Chris Clark will have their hands full when facing Houston and Hali.

In addition, rookie Dee Ford did not get a lot of playing time last week, but he should see the field more, as the Chiefs will need all the pressure they can get to slow down Denver's high-powered offense.

Take Care of the Football

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Alex Smith had a rough game last week in his first game under his new contract. After showing his ability to protect the football in his first year in Kansas City, we saw the exact opposite this past week.

In an attempt to connect with wide receiver Donnie Avery, Smith threw three interceptions against the Titans. It was his first time throwing three interceptions since October of 2012, back when he played for the San Francisco 49ers.

Against a stronger Denver defense and an offense that makes little mistakes, Smith has to avoid turnovers in order for the Chiefs to be competitive in this game.

Give the Football to the Best Player on Your Team, Jamaal Charles

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Chiefs coach Andy Reid said after the game that there was "negligence" on his part in giving running back Jamaal Charles the ball only 11 times. It was surprising to see Charles get only 11 touches after he was responsible for 37 percent of the team's offense last year, especially since the team was without wide receiver Dwayne Bowe last week.

Charles, who led all non-kickers in scoring last year, might be the most important player going into this game. Alongside the defensive pressure, if the Chiefs want a chance to stun the Broncos, they will need help from Charles to move the ball and score.

Get Dwayne Bowe Involved

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Chiefs wide receiver Dwayne Bowe returns to the team after serving a one-game suspension. Bowe struggled last year as Kansas City's primary wide receiver, catching 57 passes for 673 yards and five touchdowns.

Kansas City's passing game was inconsistent throughout the 2013 season, as the team picked up the intensity late through the air. Inconsistency will only set the Chiefs back against the Broncos.

Alex Smith and Bowe showed signs of good chemistry in Week 2 of the preseason against Carolina when Bowe caught five passes for 62 yards. The two will need to carry that over to the regular season, starting this Sunday.