The AFC West has been dominated by Kansas City for seven years in a row. Not only have they won the division each year in that span but they’ve also collected two Super Bowls in three appearances and now look to repeat in 2024. While their stranglehold on the division is expected to remain intact, there’s interest in what the rest of the division might look like. This edition of NFL over/under predictions for the 2023 season will focus on the AFC West.
*Odds Via FanDuel
NFL Over/Under Predictions: AFC West Edition
Chiefs (O/U 11.5)
To the surprise of no one, the Kansas City Chiefs are projected to have the best overall record in the NFL, as their over/under is set at 11.5 games. Since Patrick Mahomes was named the starting quarterback in 2018, the Chiefs have won 12 or more games in each season. That isn’t expected to change with Andy Reid coaching a high-powered offense headlined by two-time MVP Mahomes throwing to Travis Kelce. Even if the defense is in question, like in years past, the offense will overshadow that. This all suggests everyone should be in on the over for Kansas City as they place their bets on online casinos.
Prediction: Over (2023 win total: 12 wins)
Chargers (O/U 9.5)
The Los Angeles Chargers went 10-7 last season and made the playoffs. They could follow a similar path in 2023, only this time they hope to not blow a big lead in the Wild-Card Round if they get there. Justin Herbert has a chance to take another leap this season and show everyone why he is one of the best quarterbacks in the league. If wide receivers Keenan Allen and Mike Williams can stay healthy and with a motivated Austin Ekeler in the backfield, this offense has the potential to be one of the best in football. The Chargers’ defense also has a lot of potential, making it a reason why this team could win double-digit games and have some good odds.
Prediction: Over (10 wins)
Broncos (O/U 8.5)
There’s no doubt that the Denver Broncos will be better in 2023 with Sean Payton running the ship, but hitting the over on their projected win total is not a guarantee. Not only did they win just five games last season but their strength of schedule is much more difficult this season. No one knows if the Russell Wilson we saw last year was just a fluke or if that’s a preview moving forward. Either way, the Broncos are already dealing with injuries to start the season as Jerry Juedy will miss “several weeks” with a hamstring injury and Tim Patrick will be out for the season with an ACL injury. Many people are torn and while this defense has the talent to turn things around, last year just left a bad taste in everyone’s mouths. Betting on the Broncos might be a big gamble.
Prediction: Under (8 wins)
Raiders (O/U 6.5)
After the offseason drama of Derek Carr, the Las Vegas Raiders shift their focus to quarterback Jimmy Garroppolo. While the unknown awaits with Jimmy G, he does have some weapons at his disposal, including Davante Adams and a solid option with Jakobi Meyers. They also have Josh Jacobs back after signing him to a new one-year deal. The Raiders did however lose Darren Waller and their defense is nothing to brag about. Even with what could be a good pass rush, their secondary is one of the worst in the NFL. Pair that with an unknown Jimmy G on offense and their Raiders could see the same amount of wins as last year.
Prediction: Under (6 wins)
Other Division Over/Under Predictions:
AFC East
AFC North
AFC South
NFC East
NFC West
NFC North
NFC South
