By John Sarianides

I know naysayers will laugh at the notion that the Chiefs are a super bowl contender but they really are. The Chiefs are well coached and the roster is littered with talented players.

Offensively, quarterback Alex Smith will lead a dynamic offense that has skilled play makers in rookie running back Kareem Hunt, tight end Travis Kelce and wide receiver Tyreek Hill. Head coach Andy Reid and his staff do a phenomenal job of getting each of these guys the ball in different ways. The Chiefs run one of the most diverse offensive attacks in the NFL. 

Defensively, the Chiefs return a top five unit that can pressure opposing quarterbacks with Justin Houston and Tamba Hali and generate turnovers thanks to cornerback Marcus Peters and free safety Eric Berry. The Chiefs will once again lean on their defense to lead the way as they look to contend this season.

Here are three keys for the 2017 Chiefs.

1. Alex Smith: This could be Alex Smith’s last season as the Chiefs starter with rookie quarterback Pat Mahomes waiting in the wings. Smith has to play well and help the Chiefs get to the next level. This might be his last shot at getting to a Super Bowl. 

2. Get Off to a Good Start: Getting off to a good start will be tough considering the Chiefs open on Thursday night against the Patriots but it is imperative that Kansas City gets off to a good start and keeps pace in the AFC West. The division might be the best in all of football. 

3. Kareem Hunt Has to Be the Man: With Spencer Ware out for the season, rookie running back Kareem Hunt needs to be the man. He will have every opportunity to secure the starting running back job now and in the future.

In the End: The Chiefs have a shot to come out of the AFC and represent the conference in the Super Bowl. Health and matching up with the mighty Patriots will be the determining factors.