“There’s no question he’s making better decisions,” said coach Mike Shanahan. “He realizes that if a bad play is called or if there’s a breakdown, he doesn’t need to make an unbelievable play. He can take the sack or throw it away and try to eliminate the mistakes. We’ve got a pretty good supporting cast around him. He doesn’t have to win games on his own.”

The Broncos seized a 17-0 first-quarter lead on Sept. 26 in Denver and cruised to a 30-10 victory over the Chiefs in their first meeting this year.

But Kansas City’s a different team now. In September, it didn’t have cornerback Eric Warfield and offensive lineman John Welbourn, who were suspended. More critically, Pro Bowl left tackle Willie Roaf was out with a hamstring injury.

But Welbourn and Warfield both are back. Plus, a defense populated by a host of newcomers seems to be coming into form. Defensive lineman Ryan Sims, who injured his foot in the season opener, might even make his long-awaited return Sunday.

Most importantly, Roaf returned with a vengeance last week as the Chiefs beat New England 26-16 for their third victory in four games.

“Willie Roaf, so help me God, played the ballgame as well as he’s played any game since he’s been here,” said coach Dick Vermeil. “He was outstanding, in my opinion.”

It will be up to Roaf to keep pass-rush specialist Trevor Pryce out of quarterback Trent Green’s face, and to help blast open holes for one of the league’s hottest running backs.

Larry Johnson had 119 yards and a touchdown against the Patriots, giving him 330 yards in just his last two games, a franchise record. If he gets 100 yards against the Broncos, he’ll tie the team record with five 100-yard games in a row.

The way the Chiefs usually click at home in December, Johnson’s chances seem good.

“I don’t know how to explain it, if it’s an anomaly or not,” Hicks said of Kansas City’s December home dominance. “But we’re rolling on defense right now. The offense seems to be rolling. Special teams are coming along.

“I hope we’re 21-1 in December by the end of the year.”

Actually, 20-1 is the best he can hope for. The regular-season finale against Cincinnati will be played on Jan. 1.

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