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http://www.pressdemocrat.com Fort Worth Star Telegram OAKLAND RAIDERS Money p_layer_: Last season, Rich Gannon did everything possible to help this team win, minus a lackluster performance in the Super Bowl. But on the whole, the crafty veteran is strong between the ears and has an arm well-suited to run the Raiders' quick passing offense. Money games: In a string of four midseason losses, the Raiders dropped one in OT to San Diego and fell to Kansas City the next week. This year, Oakland hosts the Chargers in Week 4 then hosts the Chiefs three weeks later in a Sunday night showdown. Success depends on: The continued production of the older p_layer_s on the roster. In with the new: S Nnamdi Asomugha, DE Tyler Brayton, KR Ronney Jenkins, FB Cecil Martin, DT Dana Stubblefield. Out with the old: DT Sam Adams, S Anthony Dorsett, CB Tory James, WR James Jett, KR Terry Kirby, RB Jon Ritchie, DE Regan Upshaw. Expectations: People will doubt the Raiders because of the age factor but forget that Oakland boasts, in addition to Gannon's smooth offense, a solid defense led by sturdy linebackers. DENVER BRONCOS Money p_layer_: Jake Plummer immediately gives the offense a boost. Although he still lacks a comprehensive understanding of a complex NFL, Plummer can lift the offense with his scrambling strengths, providing talent at quarterback that Brian Griese never provided. Money games: Denver dropped both games to Oakland last season. Two wins probably would have given the Broncos a division _title_. This year, they face the Raiders on Sept. 22 and Nov. 30. Success depends on: The Broncos were sixth in total defense, they need a true commitment to stopping opponents. In with the new: OT Ed Ellis, S Nick Ferguson, OT George Foster, DT Daryl Gardener, OT Heath Irwin, QB Jake Plummer. Out with the old: OT Blake Brockermeyer, DT Lional Dalton, OL Lennie Friedman, RB Olandis Gary, QB Brian Griese, DT Chester McGlockton, DE Kavika Pittman, CB Tyrone Poole, DT Montae Reagor, S Izell Reese, CB Denard Walker, DE Keith Washington. Expectations: If Plummer doesn't fail (and he shouldn't) the Broncos should contend in most games. Defense is the defining factor: Can Denver's talented defensive p_layer_s can play as a group? KANSAS CITY CHIEFS Money p_layer_: Priest Holmes proved invaluable last year, running for 1,615 yards and catching passes for 672 more. His hip was supposed to be a problem, but he says it will be fine. That's a good thing because the Chiefs' insurance at running back, Penn State draftee Larry Johnson, is enjoying an exhibition season full of rookie blunders. Money games: Six of last season's losses came on the road; they lost their last five road games. An early key this year could be the two-game stretch in which they play at Green Bay on Oct. 12 and at Oakland on Oct.20. Success depends on: Holmes' success on offense, that is a must In with the new: LB Shawn Barber, WR Dameane Douglas, DE Vonnie Holliday, RB Larry Johnson, CB Dexter McKeon, LB Kawika Mitchell. Out with the old: DL Hugh Douglas, P Dan Stryzinski. Expectations: There is hope: The Chiefs' first seven losses last season were by seven points or less. But there are concerns about Holmes' hip, and the defense has holes. Vermeil might retire after this season, but unlike his last season with the Rams, it won't be holding the Lombardi Trophy. SAN DIEGO CHARGERS Money p_layer_: Drew Brees should make huge strides in his second season as a starter. Money games: San Diego starts the season at Kansas City and ends it against Oakland. Two victories as bookends for the season could help the Chargers avoid finishing last in the West. Success depends on: In the offseason, Schottenheimer stressed conditioning and defense to prevent another such collapse. In with the new: WR David Boston, FB Lorenzo Neal, CB Sammy Davis, S Terrance Kiel. Out with the old: WR Curtis Conway, OT Ed Ellis, SS Rodney Harrison, DB Ryan McNeil, CB Alex Molden, LB Orlando Ruff, LB Junior Seau. Expectations: Offense is not a problem for San Diego. Defense is.