"The Chiefs tried to console themselves after their latest defeat with the fact that they've already climbed out of a bigger hole this season. But the one they carved for themselves after Sunday's 17-10 loss to Denver at Arrowhead Stadium will be a lot more difficult to escape.

They may have to begin this attempted comeback without quarterback Matt Cassel, who was knocked out in the fourth quarter because of an apparent injury to his right hand. Cassel left the stadium with his hand wrapped, putting in doubt his availability for next Monday night's game against the Patriots in New England.

The Chiefs this time don't have the luxury of starting their rally against the likes of Minnesota and Indianapolis, either. After the Patriots, the Chiefs get five other games against playoff contenders.

The Chiefs are 4-5 and tied for second in the AFC West, one game behind the 5-4 Raiders. Beyond that, things look bleak.

They were 1-2 on their recently completed three-game home stand and were just a Philip Rivers fumble away from going winless in these three games. There's little reason to believe they can compete with some of the league's best teams and stay within arm's reach of the Raiders."