Grade Kansas City Chiefs performance vs. Denver Broncos

Did the Kansas City Chiefs play a terrific game and nearly topple the AFC champion Denver Broncos? Or did the Broncos just have a bad game?

I would say it's the former; the Chiefs had a hell of a game against the Broncos. Despite some major adversity after losing Jamaal Charles and Eric Berry to injuries, the Chiefs kept things close and never melted down. Most teams wouldn't be able to recover after losing their best player and one of their better players but the Chiefs did.

For that reason, I give the Chiefs a B+ for their performance against the Broncos. Some people may not feel that a grade like that is appropriate after a loss but the Chiefs really did have a good game plan against the Broncos. This was especially noticeable after such a bad game plan against the Titans last week. The Chiefs were certainly fortunate on the timing of some penalties but the Broncos also had their fair share of calls.

I am content with the way the offense started to move the ball. There were way too many mistakes but the Chiefs did a great job on money down by going 11-of-16 on third down. This all comes without the team playing with Charles, who left in the first quarter.

I am also happy with the way things turned out for the defense. The gaudy sack numbers (one) weren't there but they kept the Broncos to 24 points. That'll be one of the best performances against the Broncos all season.Of course there are plenty of things to work on after Manning's three touchdown passes.

Special teams wasn't very good -- the Chiefs could've won if it was (where are you, De'Anthony Thomas) -- or else they'd be pushing for an A.

I am not happy the Chiefs are 0-2 but I am not fuming mad after this particular game.