Pioli traded for Matt Cassel to run the KC offense after Cassel's first starting stint in eight years (following Tom Brady's injury) was a fairly successful one in New England. The offense Pioli developed in Arizona helped pave the way for three (!) 1,000 yard receivers that season. Tight end Tony Gonzalez was traded for next-to-nothing, proving that the 2-win Chiefs from 2008 are clearly in rebuilding mode, despite Pioli's claims to the otherwise.
Knsas City's defense was the worst-sacking unit of all-time in the NFL, breaking a 16-game record with just 10 for the season. Foes ran for 159 ypg and an eye-popping 5.0 yards per carry. Clancy Pendergast came from the desert with Haley to install a 3-4 defense and plenty of veterans (Mike Vrabel, Zach Thomas, Monty Beisel) to help change the attitude of the defense. Up front, Tyson Jackson was the No. 3 overall pick in the draft and could make a big impact - especially alongside 2008 top pick Glenn Dorsey, who will be a 3-4 DE this fall.
ASK the bookie? - The Chiefs get the benefit of a 2-win season in 2008 and a new front office and coach to have the chance to go OVER the low total in 2009. You guys all know the NFL by now, though. The division is weak enough and last-place schedule tenable enough that a big upgrade isn't out of the question. The Bookie likes what's going on in KC, and not just the ribs! OVER xxxx wins....