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Justin Herbert Week 17 Grades AFC West

NFL Week 17 Grades: AFC West 

Kansas City Chiefs (vs. Broncos)

Photo Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn Images

Offense: D

This was a pulse-check offense, and it failed the test – no rhythm, no identity, and no urgency until it was basically over. The inability to sustain drives left the defense on the field forever, and the offense never returned the favor. And at this point, why not see what you have in Brashard Smith? Hint: he’s special.

Defense: B

The defense is the only reason this wasn’t a full-body embarrassment, because they kept Denver within reach and created an interception that turned into points. They tackled well enough, forced long drives, and made the Broncos earn everything instead of giving up cheap ones. But when your offense can’t stay on the field, even a solid defensive effort turns into a slow, exhausting loss.

Overall: C-

It looked like a team sleepwalking – uninspired, uninterested, and basically waiting for the calendar to flip. The defense showed some pride, but the rest felt like end-of-season cruise control.

About Doug Henderson

Doug Henderson grew up playing every sport imagineable. He quickly hit a ceiling his playing skills didn't let him break and had to turn to writing to get his sports fix.