The Kansas City Chiefs and Baltimore Ravens will kick off the 2023 NFL season in a highly anticipated matchup featuring two of the league’s premier quarterbacks: Patrick Mahomes and Lamar Jackson. This clash promises fireworks and high-octane offense. The atmosphere in Week 1 will undoubtedly be electric, reminiscent of a playoff game. But how will Mahomes perform against a tough Ravens defense? Here are three bold predictions for the Chiefs’ superstar quarterback.
Pacheco Outscores Mahomes in Touchdowns
While Mahomes’ arm talent is undeniable, this game might see a surprising twist in the scoring department. Isiah Pacheco, the Chiefs’ emerging running back, is poised for a strong start to the season. This bold prediction suggests Pacheco will find the end zone more often than Mahomes. We foresee Mahomes throwing for two touchdowns but also throwing an interception. A decent performance, but overshadowed by Pacheco’s potential for three touchdowns.
This disparity could stem from several factors. The Chiefs’ receiving corps has undergone significant changes, and Travis Kelce, Mahomes’ reliable tight end, might see limited snaps due to personal reasons. Consequently, Mahomes might rely heavily on the run game, allowing Pacheco to shine. This prediction posits that Mahomes will be responsible for 14 points, while Pacheco contributes 21.
Alt: Patrick Mahomes throwing a football during Chiefs training camp in preparation for the 2023 NFL Season.
Mahomes Attempts a Behind-the-Back Pass
Mahomes’ audacious playing style is well-documented. During the preseason, he went viral for completing a behind-the-back pass to Travis Kelce. Fueled by the success and the ensuing buzz, this prediction anticipates Mahomes attempting the trick play again in this high-stakes game. Whether the pass connects or results in a turnover remains to be seen. However, the sheer audacity of the attempt will undoubtedly leave commentators and fans in awe. This highlight-reel attempt perfectly encapsulates Mahomes’ willingness to take risks and push the boundaries of quarterback play.
Alt: Travis Kelce and Patrick Mahomes celebrating a touchdown during Chiefs training camp in preparation for the 2023 NFL Season.
Chiefs Suffer an Opening Game Loss
Despite Mahomes’ brilliance, this bold prediction foresees the Chiefs starting the season 0-1 for the second consecutive year. Last year, they lost their opening game to the Detroit Lions but ultimately went on to win the Super Bowl. While a Week 1 loss doesn’t define a season, it could serve as a wake-up call for the defending champions.
Some fans might panic, drawing parallels to the previous season’s opener. However, analysts will likely emphasize the long-term perspective, reminding everyone of the Chiefs’ Super Bowl victory after a similar start. While this prediction suggests a stumble out of the gate, it doesn’t imply the end of Mahomes’ reign. Instead, it highlights the competitive nature of the NFL and the potential for early-season upsets. This potential loss could reignite the fire in the Chiefs, reminding them of the constant need for focus and intensity at the professional level.
