The NFL is back

After months of waiting, preseason teases, and endless speculation, the Kansas City Chiefs, reigning Super Bowl champions, are hosting the Baltimore Ravens in a thrilling rematch of the AFC title game to kick off the regular season. It’s time to dive back into the action.

Tonight’s game marks the beginning of Patrick Mahomes’ quest for a rare three-peat, but standing in his way is Lamar Jackson, who’s hungry for his second victory against the Chiefs. While both quarterbacks boast multiple MVP titles, Mahomes has had the upper hand, with Jackson only managing one win in five games against Kansas City. This includes last year’s 17-10 playoff defeat, where Jackson completed 20 of 37 passes for 272 yards, a touchdown, and an interception, while being sacked four times.

Both teams enter the season with some fresh faces on the field. The Ravens have added powerhouse running back Derrick Henry, while the Chiefs have high hopes for rookie wide receiver Xavier Worthy, who brings explosive speed to the offence. Of course, some familiar players are still in the mix, including the fan-favourite tight ends: Travis Kelce for Kansas City and Mark Andrews for Baltimore.

No matter the outcome tonight, don’t read too much into it. Last year, the Chiefs lost their Thursday night opener to the Detroit Lions, 21-20, yet five months later, they were covered in confetti as Super Bowl champions. Meanwhile, the Lions watched the NFC title game from home after a devastating loss.

Halftime Report: Chiefs Lead 13-10

If you need to catch your breath, you’re not alone. The first half was played at a breakneck pace, with the Chiefs largely dominating despite some strong moments from the Ravens. Both teams exchanged scoring drives to start the game, with Baltimore actually winning the time of possession battle, holding the ball for nearly 20 minutes compared to Kansas City’s 10 minutes.

Pacheco Punches It In

Kansas City wasted no time opening up the second half, driving down the field and widening their lead with a touchdown by Isiah Pacheco. The drive was fuelled by a 33-yard pass from Mahomes to Rashee Rice, which set up Pacheco’s one-yard plunge into the end zone. The Chiefs were also helped by a roughing the passer penalty against Nnamdi Madubuike, which gave them an important boost in momentum.

With the Chiefs now holding a two-score lead, the Ravens will need to step up their game if they want to turn the tide.

What to Expect

With both Mahomes and Jackson leading the charge, this game is far from over. The Ravens may be trailing, but with the firepower they have in their lineup, it’s still anyone’s game. Stay tuned as these two AFC giants continue to battle it out in what promises to be a thrilling finish to this NFL kickoff.