Chiefs face must-win game

It's the final weekend of the regular season in the NFL and for once, the vagaries of the fixture list have not thrown up a real head-to-head for a play-off spot. That doesn't mean a lack of excitement though, none more so perhaps in Kansas City on Sunday where the Chiefs face the Cincinnati Bengals. The Bengals, who have thrived on a strong defence all season, have already qualified for the post-season fun, while the Chiefs need to win and for a couple of other results to go their way for them to claim a place in the play-offs.

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The last time the two teams met, two years ago, the Bengals shaded a tight game 24-19, but with so much to play for, you have to expect the Chiefs to throw everything at victory. That means Trent Green throwing everything, Dante Hall producing some stunning punt and kick-off returns, and Larry Johnson, who has come of age after injury to Priest Holmes, running through any holes in the Bengals defence. The Chiefs are second in overall offence and despite the relative strength of the Bengals defence - they are solid rather than spectacular - it is hard to see them stopping the Chiefs from scoring plenty of points, particularly if the Bengals decide to rest a couple of players with a view to having them fully fit for the play-offs.

That said, the Chiefs offence is beginning to work smoothly and the Chiefs, never the most defensive-minded of teams, will find it equally hard to stop their opposing line. bet365 have the Chiefs at 19/20 (1.95) giving up 7.5pts and though that's a bit tight, they ought to be able to cover it.

For the record, the Indianapolis Colts are evens favourites to win the Superbowl, with Seattle Seahawks next at 9/2 (5.50) and the New England Patriots 13/2 (7.50). The Patriots, our outright tip before the start of the season, are looking ominous going into the play-offs having overcome a tough first half of the season when injuries got the better of them. They should face the Colts in the Divisional Final, so that could be a classic.

Please note that odds are correct at time of publication and are subject to change.