~snip~.
Most teams tend to take the Champions league competition more seriously than their league and Chelsea seem to be one of such teams the season because that is the best explanation to their successful stats in the Champions league and struggles in the league with same players and same manager. I agree with you that Chelsea should not be underated in the Champions league because if their poor form in the league, who knows whether the Champions league trophies is the major objectives for them this season.
Chelsea should be underrated completely in the Champions League. They have no track record, just that once they won the CL against Guardiola doesn't mean they are not experts in the Champions League. Chelsea is not a contender and their is no hope for them. They didn't take Champions League seriously than English Premier league, what happened is that EPL was stronger and hotter for them. Everyone wants to do well in EPL at the same time this season. There is no great hope for Chelsea in the CL.
Why not, if Potter is able to fix the problems that occur in his squad and find the right strategy formulation. it is not impossible, Chelsea will come back fierce. either in the Domestic League or the Champions League. after all, in fact, Chelsea has potential with its players, even though they are not too favorite in this competition.
I hope Potter sees his players who are competing in the world cup in Qatar, especially for Hakim Ziyech who is playing well with his national team. Potter can give him many opportunities after the league is rolled back, at least Potter has other options to play him as a playmaker or winger. although he is not the answer to Chelsea's needs, Potter can rotate the available players in addition to bringing in newcomers in the upcoming January transfer market. I think Chelsea can overcome Dortmund in the round of 16 later.