The NFL season once again begins in Kansas City as the defending champion Chiefs go up against the Baltimore Ravens.
Best Bet
The Chiefs looks a great bet laying less than a field goal in the season opener.
These teams met in the AFC Championship game where the Chiefs – on the road – were able to to hold the Ravens to a mere ten points.
As is always the case there has been plenty of personnel change on both teams, but the Chiefs are remarkably well placed to continue their dynasty.
It was largely the defence that carried the team last season, especially in the playoffs, and while the absence of L’Jarius Snead will hurt, it’s by and large the same unit that kept Lamar Jackson and company to ten points in the AFC decider.
It will be fascinating to see Derrick Henry on his debut for the Ravens, but at the same time he is a now 30 year old running back about to begin his ninth NFL season.
They key personnel are still there for the Chiefs, above all Patrick Mahomes, but also head coach Andy Reid, defensive co-ordinator Steve Spagnuolo, as well as superstar tight end Travis Kelce – who had 116 yards and a score last time against Baltimore – and star defensive tackle Chris Jones. Both Kelce and Jones missed the season opener last year when the Chiefs lost to the Lions.
The Chiefs covered the line in their last six games to finish 202 and they can begin this season on a winning note once again.
Same Game Multi
Isiah Pacheco had a touchdown in seven of his last eight games to close last season and is far away the top option for the Chiefs at running back.
Rashee Rice had an outstanding finish to his rookie season, surpassing this number in five of his last six regular season games. He shapes as WR1 for the Chiefs this year.
Value Bet
Pacheco scored the first TD in the Chiefs last two regular season games and the Chiefs RB1 should see all the action in goal line situations.
