NFL
NFL Week 1 Predictions & Preview: Chiefs tame Ravens in thrilling encounter
The National Football League is back, and what a set of matches we have to get stuck into in Week One!
The Kansas City Chiefs raised the curtain in style as they narrowly beat the Baltimore Ravens, they’re 11/2 joint favourites to win Super Bowl LIX. Patrick Mahomes and his Chiefs got us underway and we take a look back at that game, then preview the rest of the action.
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Baltimore Ravens 20 – 27 Kansas City Chiefs
The season began with the Baltimore Ravens facing the Kansas City Chiefs in what was a fascinating matchup. The Chiefs added speed in the-off season, drafting wide receiver Xavier Worthy. Worthy impressed in training camp and pre-season, catching many deep passes. He only notched up 21 receiving yards in the season opener, but his two touchdowns were decisive.
Following late drama, the Ravens saw their last-gasp touchdown chalked off and the Chiefs would go on to win 20-27, courtesy of two touchdowns from the new man out wide.
Arizona Cardinals (49/20) @ Buffalo Bills (10/29)
Now we look ahead to what the rest of the opening round has in store, with the Arizona Cardinals’ clash with the Buffalo Bills our game to watch.
One team with a live chance this year is the Buffalo Bills, who are 12/1 to win Super Bowl LIX. This game and their season will largely rely upon quarterback Josh Allen staying healthy. After another top five MVP finish for him last season, Bills fans will be expecting a big season from their quarterback.
This game could be high-scoring, with the Cardinals’ defence taking a hit in the off season with several players being sidelined by long-term injuries.
Carolina Panthers (7/4) @ New Orleans Saints (1/2)
The New Orleans Saints are favoured to win this game, where both teams will be looking to improve on last season. Both sides have had an offensive line overhaul and it’ll be a fascinating match-up to see how these additions can improve the sides.
Houston Texans (5/8) @ Indianapolis Colts (7/5)
This tie looks to be another high-scoring affair with many of Indianapolis’ offensive line returning to full fitness for the beginning of the season to face off against an ever-strong Houston attack, where the key will be keeping those important players fit if they are to get in the mix this year. Points look the order of the day here, and over 48.5 at 10/11 looks good.
Jacksonville Jaguars (31/20) @ Miami Dolphins (4/7)
The Miami Dolphins’ offensive line can be considered one of the most dangerous in the league. Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa – who led the league in passing yards last season – and Tyreek Hill – the league leader in receiving yards – will be a tough partnership to combat for many teams.
Miami won’t have it all their own way, and there’s reason to be enthused as a Jaguars fan this season. Quarterback Trevor Lawrence is fit and healthy to begin the season – they could get on a good run with him in the team.
