Chiefs vs. Ravens: Schedule, betting odds, forecast, critical factors, viewing options, NFL live streaming for the 2024 NFL Kickoff Game. The two-time reigning champions commence their season against

The 2024 NFL season has finally arrived. The opening game features the two-time reigning Super Bowl champions, the Kansas City Chiefs, as they take on the Baltimore Ravens in a rematch of last season's AFC Championship. This matchup showcases an array of talent, highlighted by the presence of Patrick Mahomes and Lamar Jackson. As the league's most recent MVPs, these two exceptional playmakers will face distinct challenges from two of the NFL's top defenses. With the remarkable coaching expertise on both sides, fans can anticipate an intriguing tactical battle. Before delving into a comprehensive analysis of the matchup, let us explore the viewing options for the game.

How to watch 

Date: Thursday, Sep. 5 | Time: 8:20 p.m. ET

Location: GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium (Kansas City)

Odds: Chiefs -3; O/U 47 (via SportsLine consensus odds)

Channel: NBC

 Stream: Fubo

Follow: CBS Sports App   

When the Ravens have the ball

Baltimore faced significant challenges in scoring during the AFC championship game, struggling to advance the ball for a considerable portion of the match. Out of their initial eight drives, only two surpassed 30 yards, and merely one penetrated more than a yard into Kansas City territory. The Ravens managed to execute a five-play, 63-yard drive that concluded with Zay Flowers' fumble near the goal line, followed by a 12-play, 74-yard drive that ended with Deon Bush intercepting Lamar Jackson in the end zone. Additionally, they had a nine-play, 29-yard drive that resulted in a field goal by Justin Tucker, reducing Kansas City's lead to 10 points before the Chiefs effectively ran out the clock. In total, this amounted to 145 yards gained on 32 plays (averaging 4.5 yards per play) during the first eight possessions (including one kneel-down), followed by 166 yards on 29 plays (averaging 5.7 yards per play) in the final three drives.

The running game for Baltimore was nearly nonexistent, even prior to the Ravens' decision to largely abandon it. Gus Edwards managed a 15-yard run during the second drive of the game; however, he, Justice Hill, and Zay Flowers collectively gained only 12 yards on seven attempts. Jackson faced significant challenges as Steve Spagnuolo's formidable secondary restricted his passing options, while Kansas City's aggressive blitzing put pressure on him, leading to inaccurate throws and poor choices. He concluded the game with a completion rate of 20 out of 37 for 272 yards, accompanied by one touchdown and one interception. The alterations made since late January have not significantly benefited the Ravens. They have replaced three of their five starting offensive linemen—Morgan Moses, Kevin Zeitler, and John Simpson—and have not significantly bolstered their roster with impactful pass-catchers, having lost Odell Beckham Jr. and drafted Devontez Walker. However, the addition of Derrick Henry could substantially alter the dynamics of the running game. Jackson has historically enhanced the performance of his running backs, and Henry has been notably efficient throughout most of his career. Although his yards per carry have declined over the past two years, there is optimism that playing alongside Jackson and behind a reasonably competent offensive line can rejuvenate his performance. Henry requires only minimal space to inflict damage on a defense, and Jackson excels at creating those opportunities. Considering that Kansas City's defense is more adept at defending against the pass than the run, this could lead to a markedly different outcome compared to the previous encounter eight months ago.

Should the Ravens find themselves trailing, or if Kansas City's run defense manages to contain Henry to minimal gains instead of allowing significant plays, the Chiefs will retain comparable advantages in their passing game as they did in the previous season. However, the term "comparable" is crucial here, as there may be additional opportunities for the Ravens to exploit—particularly at cornerback, where L'Jarius Sneed is being substituted by a group of inexperienced players, none of whom have distinguished themselves sufficiently to secure a starting position. The potential for Baltimore to take advantage of this situation hinges, at least partially, on whether star Chiefs cornerback Trent McDuffie follows Zay Flowers closely or if Flowers can maneuver against one of Jaylen Watson, Joshua Williams, Chamarri Conner, or Nazeeh Johnson. Flowers stands out as Jackson's most dynamic receiver, capable of quickly creating separation from defenders. He operates like a human joystick, and if Todd Monken can devise a strategy to position him effectively while Jackson can locate him swiftly and decisively, there are opportunities for significant yardage. The same could apply to Mark Andrews against the Chiefs' two-high coverages, which can be susceptible to passes in the middle of the field. This is where Jackson and Andrews excel, and it will be essential for Nick Bolton, Leo Chenal, Justin Reid, and Bryan Cook to effectively cover the prominent tight end and limit his chances for seam routes and yards after catch on crossing patterns. Additionally, the Ravens must devise a strategy to counter Spagnuolo's pressures, a challenge they have largely struggled with in past encounters. The Chiefs have blitzed Jackson on 39.2% of his dropbacks throughout his career, marking the second-highest rate among teams he has faced more than once. He has completed only 53% of his passes with an average of 7.0 yards per attempt in these situations, converting merely 26.7% of third-down opportunities when under pressure. If the Ravens cannot find a solution to succeed in these scenarios, overcoming the Chiefs will prove to be a formidable task.

When the Chiefs have the ball

Significant changes are anticipated on this side of the matchup. The Ravens experienced a notable coaching turnover on the defensive side during the offseason, with Mike Macdonald departing to assume the head coaching position in Seattle, Dennard Wilson becoming the defensive coordinator in Tennessee, and Anthony Weaver being appointed as the defensive coordinator in Miami. Zach Orr, previously the linebackers coach, has stepped in to replace Macdonald, while Chris Hewitt, who served as the secondary coach and pass-game coordinator, has been promoted to assistant head coach. Although there is some continuity within the coaching staff, there has also been a considerable loss of expertise. This trend extends beyond the coaching ranks, as Patrick Queen, Geno Stone, and Jadeveon Clowney have all left via free agency. Eddie Jackson has been brought in to fill the role previously held by Stone, while the Ravens have drafted edge rusher Adisa Isaac and added depth to the secondary with Nate Wiggins, T.J. Tampa, and Sanoussi Kane, the latter of whom performed impressively during the preseason. With established stars such as Roquan Smith, Kyle Hamilton, Nnamdi Madubuike, and Marlon Humphrey, alongside key contributors like Marcus Williams, Brandon Stephens, Michael Pierce, Travis Jones, and Kyle Van Noy, the potential for maintaining a strong defense remains. However, the pressing question is whether the Ravens can quickly regain their previous level of performance, particularly in a challenging environment against the two-time defending champions. Given the extensive changes this offseason, this presents a formidable challenge.

This is particularly relevant given the enhancements made to the Kansas City offense. The selection of Kingsley Suamataia in the second round is expected to provide a significant improvement over Donovan Smith at the left tackle position. Additionally, first-round pick Xavier Worthy is poised to inject energy into the passing game. At the very least, the wide receivers are anticipated to demonstrate greater reliability compared to their performance for the majority of the previous season; it is difficult to envision a scenario where they could perform worse. Furthermore, Rashee Rice is expected to assume a full-time role from the outset, while Worthy appears ready to contribute more immediately than Rice did last year. With Travis Kelce and his ability to improvise alongside Patrick Mahomes, the offense is once again primed for success. It will be important to monitor how the Chiefs manage Kelce's playing time to maintain his health, as he took more snaps off last season than he had in recent years, a trend likely to continue this season. The ability of Baltimore to generate pressure upfront, and the speed at which that pressure can reach the quarterback, will be crucial in determining whether the Chiefs can effectively implement their revamped deep passing game, adding another layer of challenge for the Ravens.

The manner in which the Ravens opt to utilize their secondary against Kansas City's offensive threats will be a compelling aspect to observe. Hamilton presents the most favorable theoretical matchup for both Kelce and Rice. The question arises: whom will he cover? If he is assigned to Kelce, will Humphrey then shadow Rice? Should that be the case, does Baltimore possess a player with sufficient speed to keep pace with Worthy? Alternatively, can Ar'Darius Washington effectively contend with Rice in the slot, despite a notable size disadvantage? What level of involvement can be expected from Wiggins in Week 1? How will the responsibilities be allocated between Williams and Jackson when employing three-safety formations? Is Trenton Simpson capable of fulfilling the role that Queen previously occupied? These inquiries lack straightforward answers. Even if they are satisfactorily addressed, the challenge of containing Mahomes remains. One may have all the strategies in place, yet Mahomes has the ability to overcome them consistently. Whether employing a blitz, transitioning to zone coverage, utilizing shell coverages, or playing man-to-man, there is little that can truly perplex either him or Andy Reid. Nevertheless, the Ravens are likely to maintain a robust performance against the run, although the interior of Kansas City's offensive line may exploit certain advantages, particularly against the non-Madubuike components of Baltimore's defensive front. Should Isiah Pacheco gain momentum, it would further enhance the Chiefs' opportunities in the passing game.

Prediction: Chiefs 27, Ravens 23

Last year, Kansas City experienced a defeat in their home opener; however, that particular Chiefs squad was without Chris Jones and had a Travis Kelce who was hindered by injuries. In contrast, the current Chiefs team is not only healthy but also possesses greater talent than its predecessor. The Ravens continue to be formidable challengers for the Chiefs' supremacy, yet it will require additional time for the champions to be unseated. What insights does the SportsLine Projection Model—having generated over $7,000 for $100 bettors on its top-rated NFL selections since its establishment—offer regarding this opening match? Explore that forecast along with predictions for all Week 1 contests.