For 10 months, the Broncos plotted their plan to be more competitive against the Kansas City Chiefs and not only break a nine-game losing streak in the series, but maybe, just maybe, make things interesting in the AFC West.
They felt offensive coordinator Pat Shurmur would boost a dormant attack. They felt quarterback Drew Lock was ready for prime time. They felt rookie receivers Jerry Jeudy and KJ Hamler would add the speedy big-play ability the Chiefs have with Tyreek Hill and others.
The Broncos felt the gap between them and the Chiefs had narrowed.