SPORTS N STUFF

The Kansas City Chiefs were the NFLs most improved team a year ago. This season, it will be much harder for them to take another step forward. The Chiefs took advantage of a relatively weak schedule and the addition of several key players to capture the AFC West title, but wont be able to sneak up on anybody this sports betting season as they begin a long climb back to the top week one against the Buffalo Bills.
Buffalo Bills @ Kansas City Chiefs
Sunday September 11, 2011 1:00 PM ET
Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City, Missouri
NFL Betting Lines: Kansas City Chiefs 6

While the Chiefs will have trouble staying at the top, the Bills are hoping that one day they will just be able to get there. Buffalo head coach Chan Gailey has said that he expects to win every game, but that may be asking too much of a roster that isnt yet ready to contend.
NFL Betting Preview: Buffalo Bills
The Bills have several positives to bank on this season, including Ryan Fitzpatrick starting at quarterback a full season. Fitzpatrick passed for 3,000 with 23 touchdowns in just 13 games after taking over for Trent Edwards, and indications are that he can improve those numbers with the added confidence and experience of playing full-time. A big reason for Fitzpatricks emergence was the play of wide receiver Steve Johnson, who had 1,073 yards and 10 touchdowns. With Lee Evans gone, the Bills will rely on Johnson even more, with Brad Smith brought in to start on the other side. Buffalos defense added Shawne Merriman at outside linebacker to improve its pass rush, and it will be interesting to see how much he has left in the tank.
NFL Betting Preview: Kansas City Chiefs
Despite injuring his ribs in the preseason finale against the Green Bay Packers, Matt Cassel will be under center for the Chiefs this week. He will need to make sure he gets the ball out in a hurry to avoid taking any major hits, and that means running backs Jamaal Charles and Thomas Jones should get a ton of touches. Linebackers Derrick Johnson and Tamba Hali emerged as true playmakers a year ago, and will be asked to lead the defense once again. If Kansas City can get pressure on Fitzpatrick he could start making mistakes.
NFL Betting Preview: Outlook & Pick
The Bills will need to bring a major pass rush moves as they look to rough up Cassel even more. Those injured ribs have to be tender, and if Merriman and company can land a few shots he may not be able to finish the game. Buffalos passing game is solid, and if the offensive line can open up some holes for Fred Jackson and CJ Spiller, then the Bills could surprise by at least keeping this one close in hostile sports betting bonus territory.

NFL Betting Pick: Buffalo Bills +6