The Kansas City Chiefs are set to hit the road for the first time in the 2024 NFL season in their Week 3 game against the Atlanta Falcons. Although Andy Reid’s team left serious questions after their difficult victories in their first two games of the season, fans are eagerly awaiting the game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, which promises to be a thrilling Sunday Night show
Despite the Falcons’ strong start under new head coach Raheem Morris and the arrival of Kirk Cousins at quarterback, the defending Super Bowl champions remain the heavy favorites to take home the win.
While the Falcons are hoping to make a playoff push with a 1-1 record, they face an uphill battle against a stacked Chiefs roster led by Patrick Mahomes. Mahomes has consistently dominated NFC opponents throughout his career, and he’s expected to continue that trend as he makes his debut in Atlanta’s regular season.
With Cousins and offensive weapons like Bijan Robinson, Kyle Pitts, and Drake London, the Falcons will need to be at their best to challenge Kansas City’s high-powered offense.
The Chiefs will arrive at Mercedes-Benz with serious doubts after injuries to running back Isiah Pacheco and receiver Hollywood Brown. Meanwhile, the Falcons arrive with a full team.
Nick Bolton’s Clutch Stop Seals Chiefs’ 22-17 Victory Over Falcons
In a pivotal moment, the Falcons handed the ball to Tyler Allgeier on 3rd & 1, but he was stopped for no gain, leaving Atlanta with 4th & inches. Kansas City took its first timeout, and linebacker Nick Bolton, who had been injured earlier in the quarter, came up with a massive stop, tackling Bijan Robinson for a 3-yard loss and forcing a turnover on downs. That play effectively sealed the game for the Chiefs. Patrick Mahomes knelt out the remaining seconds, securing a 22-17 victory for Kansas City in Atlanta, marking his second win against the Falcons.
Falcons March Forward After Chiefs’ Penalties, Timeout Sets Up Key 3rd & 1
The two-minute warning arrived after Kirk Cousins’ deep pass to Ray-Ray McCloud fell incomplete, though Chiefs cornerback Trent McDuffie was flagged for pass interference, giving Atlanta the ball at the Kansas City 37-yard line with 1:56 remaining. After the break, Cousins attempted a deep shot to Drake London along the left sideline, but it was just out of reach.
On the next play, Darnell Mooney caught a short pass but was tackled by Justin Watson, who was flagged for a horse-collar tackle, tacking on a 15-yard penalty. Cousins went back to Mooney on a bubble pass, but he was stopped for a 2-yard loss by Chiefs’ linebacker Cam Johnson. Cousins redeemed the drive with an 11-yard strike to London, advancing the Falcons to the Chiefs’ 13-yard line for a 3rd & 1. Atlanta took their first timeout with 1:03 remaining, setting up a critical moment in the game.
Falcons Get New Life After Penalty as Cousins Connects with London for Key Gain
The Chiefs began their drive deep in their own territory at the 6-yard line. Carson Steele took the first handoff for 2 yards, followed by Patrick Mahomes scrambling for 6 more, setting up 3rd & 2. However, Mahomes’ pass to Rashee Rice fell incomplete, forcing Kansas City to punt. Matt Araiza’s kick was fair caught by Winchester at the Falcons’ 35-yard line, leaving Atlanta with 2:26 on the clock to make up at least five points. Kirk Cousins’ first pass toward Darnell Mooney was well defended by Trent McDuffie, who tipped the ball, but Chiefs’ Deon BushConner was called for illegal use of hands, giving Atlanta a 5-yard boost. Cousins then connected with Drake London for a 12-yard gain, securing a fresh set of downs as the Falcons’ drive continued.
Falcons Fail to Convert on 4th Down as Chiefs Hold Strong Late in the Game
The Falcons made an aggressive move by going for it on 4th & 2, and Kirk Cousins delivered with a 7-yard pass to Drake London, bringing the ball to the Chiefs’ 11-yard line. Bijan Robinson followed with a 4-yard rush, getting Atlanta inside the 10. Tyler Allgeier’s next carry only gained 1 yard, as Chiefs linebacker Nick Bolton returned to the field. Cousins then targeted Kyle Pitts in the end zone, but the tight end was well-covered by Bryan Cook, resulting in an incompletion. On 4th & 5, the Falcons went for it again, but Cousins’ pass to London fell incomplete, leading to a turnover on downs with 4:04 remaining in the game.
Falcons Drive Deep into Chiefs Territory as McCloud’s 20-Yard Run Sets Up Key Play
Kirk Cousins faced pressure and couldn’t connect with Ray-Ray McCloud on the first play of the drive, with a hands-to-the-face penalty on Chris Lindstrom pushing Atlanta back 5 yards. Tyler Allgeier responded by powering through with three consecutive runs of 10, 12, and 2 yards, moving the chains. Cousins then found Kyle Pitts along the right sideline for a first down at their own 39-yard line. After a 2-yard run by Bijan Robinson, Cousins hit Drake London for a 13-yard gain, with Chiefs linebacker Nick Bolton making the tackle before walking off the field with an injury. On the next play, McCloud took a handoff in motion up the left sideline for a 20-yard gain, pushing Atlanta to the Kansas City 26. However, Darnell Mooney’s short reception was met with a loss of 2 yards, thanks to Chiefs safety Justin Reid. Cousins quickly passed short to Robinson for a 4-yard gain, setting up 3rd & 8. An offsides call on Reid gave the Falcons a 5-yard boost, but Robinson’s next carry fell short, gaining just 1 yard and leaving Atlanta shy of a first down.
Chiefs Forced to Punt After Bates’ Defensive Play on Kelce, Falcons Retain Possession
Kansas City started their drive with Carson Steele rushing for 6 yards, but the running back was slow to get up and left the field under his own power. Patrick Mahomes then connected with Samaje Perine for a 2-yard gain, followed by a pass up the middle to Travis Kelce, but Falcons safety Jessie Bates knocked the ball out of the tight end’s hands. Facing 4th & 2 at their own 38-yard line, the Chiefs opted to punt. Matt Araiza’s kick was returned by Avery Williams to the Atlanta 11-yard line, where a potential fumble was quickly ruled down by contact, allowing the Falcons to retain possession with 11:22 left in the game.
Koo’s 54-Yard Field Goal Cuts Chiefs’ Lead to Five as Falcons Stay in the Hunt
Tyler Allgeier opened the final quarter with a 3-yard run before Kirk Cousins attempted a deep pass to Drake London, only to have it swatted down by Chiefs linebacker Nick Bolton, setting up 3rd & 7 at Atlanta’s 44. Cousins then connected with Darnell Mooney for a 17-yard gain, moving the Falcons into Kansas City territory at the 39-yard line. Bijan Robinson followed with a 3-yard rush, but Cousins’ next pass under pressure fell incomplete. On 3rd & 7 from the Chiefs’ 36, Cousins’ pass intended for Robinson bounced off the running back’s hands, forcing a 4th down. Younghoe Koo came in for a 54-yard field goal attempt and drilled it right up the middle, tying his career long and cutting the Chiefs’ lead to five points with 12:52 remaining in regulation.
Cousins and Robinson Lead Falcons to Strong Finish in the Third Quarter
Harrison Butker’s kickoff was returned by Ray-Ray McCloud to the Atlanta 33, but a penalty on tight end Ross Dwelley for an illegal block in the back pushed the Falcons back 10 yards. Despite the setback, Kirk Cousins immediately found Darnell Mooney for an 11-yard gain and a fresh set of downs. On the next play, Bijan Robinson was tackled for a 2-yard loss by Chiefs linebacker Nick Bolton. However, Cousins connected with Robinson on the following play for a 17-yard gain, bringing the Falcons to their own 41-yard line as the third quarter came to a close.
Smith-Schuster Powers In for Chiefs TD, Butker Misses Extra Point to Keep It a One-Score Game
TOUCHDOWN CHIEFS! On 3rd & 7, Patrick Mahomes connected with JuJu Smith-Schuster near the 7-yard line, and the wide receiver powered his way into the end zone to extend Kansas City’s lead. However, Harrison Butkermissed the extra point, hitting the right upright, keeping the game within one score as the Chiefs now lead 23-15.
Chiefs Drive Deep into Falcons Territory, but Rashee Rice Injured After Terrell Tackle
Kansas City’s offense continued to roll as Carson Steele picked up 2 yards on 3rd & 1, securing a fresh set of downs. Patrick Mahomes followed up with a beautiful 27-yard pass to Rashee Rice, pushing the Chiefs deep into Falcons’ territory at the Atlanta 42. After a short 1-yard reception by Xavier Worthy, Mahomes scrambled for 15 yards, moving the ball to the Falcons’ 27. Steele then took over, rushing for 8 yards and then 2 more for another first down at the 18-yard line. Worthy added 6 yards on a handoff before Mahomes hit Rice on a short pass. However, after being tackled by Atlanta’s A.J. Terrell,Rice remained on the ground and was immediately tended to by the Chiefs’ trainers, raising concerns about his status.
Steele and Rice Push Chiefs Offense as Kansas City Prepares for 3rd & 1
Carson Steele opened Kansas City’s drive with a 5-yard run to the Chiefs’ 25-yard line. On the next play, Patrick Mahomes connected with Rashee Rice, setting up a manageable 3rd & 1 as the Chiefs look to continue their momentum against the Falcons’ defense.
Chiefs Take Lead After Strong Drive, Butker’s Field Goal Puts KC Up 17-15
Unfortunate news from the Falcons’ locker room emerged after halftime, as both center Drew Dalman and right tackle Kaleb McGary were downgraded to OUT for the rest of the game, with Ryan Neuzil and Storm Norton stepping in as replacements. After Bradley Pinion kicked off for a touchback, Kansas City started the half strong from their own 30-yard line. Patrick Mahomes connected with Travis Kelce for 9 yards, then found Rashee Rice for a 14-yard gain. Carson Steele took over from there, rushing for 5 yards to the Atlanta 42, before Mahomes hit Rice again for 6 yards and a new set of downs. Mahomes brought Kelce further into the offensive mix with a 17-yard pass, setting Kansas City up at the Atlanta 10. Steele followed with two rushes for 9 and 7 yards, moving the ball to the 3-yard line for 1st & Goal. Mahomes went in motion on the next play, allowing Steele to take the snap and push forward for 2 yards to the 1-yard line. However, Steele was stopped for a 2-yard loss on the following play, setting up 3rd & Goal. Under pressure, Mahomes threw the ball away on the next play, forcing the Chiefs to call on Harrison Butker, who nailed a 21-yard field goal. Kansas City took a 2-point lead over the Falcons, 17-15, with 9:40 remaining in the third quarter.
Carson Steele Misses Sister’s Wedding to Suit Up for Chiefs, Family Watches from Reception
While Carson Steele was supposed to stand as a groomsman at his sister’s wedding today, he’s still making his presence felt on the field for the Kansas City Chiefs. Though he couldn’t attend the ceremony in person, Steele’s family is showing their support by watching tonight’s game from the wedding reception, cheering him on as he competes under the bright lights. His absence at the family gathering is a reminder of the sacrifices athletes make, but Steele is certainly there in spirit.
Falcons Hold Slim Lead at Halftime as Cousins and Mahomes Match Stats
Harrison Butker kicked it into the end zone for a touchback, and the Falcons opted to take a knee from their own 30-yard line to end the first half. In a tightly contested game, both quarterbacks have thrown for exactly 128 yards. Kirk Cousins has completed 8-of-11 passes with one touchdown and one interception, while Patrick Mahomes has gone 17-of-27, also recording a touchdown and an interception in the opening 30 minutes. The Falcons lead the Chiefs by just one point as the teams head into halftime.
Conner’s Interception Sets Up Chiefs’ Field Goal as Butker Narrows Falcons’ Lead
INTERCEPTION KANSAS CITY! Chiefs safety Deon Bush Conner made an easy pick near the sideline, then lateraled the ball to Justin Watson, who was tackled at the Falcons’ 34-yard line. Patrick Mahomes wasted no time, connecting with Samaje Perine for an 8-yard gain before the Chiefs took their final timeout with 0:23 left in the half. On 2nd & 2, Mahomes missed JuJu Smith-Schuster in the end zone, then threw the ball away on 3rd down, setting up 4th & 2 from the Falcons’ 26-yard line. Head coach Andy Reid sent out Harrison Butker for a 44-yard field goal attempt, which he drilled, narrowing Atlanta’s lead to just one point with six seconds remaining in the half.
Rookie Felix Anudike-Uzomah Records First Career Sack as Chiefs Look to Strike Before Halftime
Kansas City’s rookie linebacker Felix Anudike-Uzomah notched his first career sack, forcing Atlanta into a tough 3rd & 18 situation late in the second quarter. Bijan Robinson nearly fumbled the handoff but managed to recover, gaining just 5 yards, which wasn’t enough for a first down. Falcons punter Bradley Pinion sent it away, giving the Chiefs 1:37 on the clock and starting field position at their own 34-yard line, as they look to put points on the board before halftime.
Falcons Set Back by Fumble and Penalty as Chiefs Sack Cousins Late in First Half
The play was officially ruled a fumble, and Bijan Robinson was penalized 10 yards for kicking the ball out of bounds, pushing the Falcons back to their own 22-yard line. To add to Atlanta’s troubles, center Drew Dalman has been ruled questionable to return with an ankle injury. With less than two minutes remaining in the half, Chiefs linebacker Felix Anudike-Uzomah sacked Kirk Cousins, leaving Atlanta facing a daunting 3rd & 18. Robinson nearly fumbled the handoff but managed to recover it for a modest 5-yard gain, forcing the Falcons to punt. Bradley Pinion’s kick gave the Chiefs the ball at their own 34-yard line, leaving 1:37 on the clock for Kansas City to make a push before halftime.
Falcons’ Offensive Line Woes Continue as Dalman Injured, McGary Questionable
Harrison Butker’s kickoff resulted in another touchback, giving Atlanta possession at their own 30-yard line. Bijan Robinson took the first handoff of the drive for a 2-yard gain, but the Falcons suffered another setback as offensive lineman Drew Dalman went down with an injury during the play. This marks the second injury to Atlanta’s offensive line today, with right tackle Kaleb McGary also questionable to return due to a knee injury.
Falcons Defense Holds Strong, But Butker Nails 53-Yard Kick for Chiefs
On 3rd & 2, Patrick Mahomes handed the ball off to Samaje Perine, but the Falcons’ defense held firm, stopping him for no gain and forcing 4th down. Chiefs head coach Andy Reid opted for the field goal, sending out Harrison Butker, who drilled a 53-yard kick to cut Atlanta’s lead to four points. With 2:43 left in the half, the Falcons now lead 14-10.
Chiefs March Downfield with Steele and Rice Leading the Charge
Mecole Hardman decided to return Bradley Pinion’s kickoff, taking it to the Kansas City 31-yard line. On the first play of the drive, Patrick Mahomes handed off to Carson Steele, who powered ahead for a 9-yard gain to set up 2nd & 1. Steele followed that with another 4-yard carry, moving the chains. Mahomes then connected with tight end Noah Gray and wide receiver Rashee Rice for a combined 15 yards. On the next play, Mahomes targeted Rice again for a 6-yard reception, setting up a manageable 3rd & 2 at the Falcons’ 35-yard line.
Bijan Robinson Scores as Falcons Take 14-7 Lead Over Chiefs
TOUCHDOWN ATLANTA! Second-year running back Bijan Robinson capitalized on 1st & Goal, powering into the end zone to give the Falcons a 7-point lead with 6:37 remaining in the half. Kicker Younghoe Koo added the extra point to make it 14-7. Tight end Kyle Pitts continues to shine, racking up more receiving yards in today’s game than in his first two games combined, providing a critical boost to Atlanta’s offense.
Cousins Connects with Pitts for a Big Gain, Falcons Set Up at Chiefs’ 1-Yard Line
On the first play of the drive, Robinson took a handoff but was stopped for no gain. Kirk Cousins then made a crucial play, finding a wide-open Kyle Pitts streaking down the field toward the end zone. Pitts was tackled just short of the goal line by Kansas City’s Tershawn Wharton at the 1-yard line. Adding to Kansas City’s troubles, a holding penalty was called on cornerback Trent McDuffie, putting the Falcons in prime scoring position.
Falcons RT Kaleb McGary Exits with Left Leg Injury as Storm Norton Enters
Falcons right tackle Kaleb McGary suffered a concerning left leg injury during the second quarter, forcing him to be helped off the field. McGary was unable to put any pressure on the injured leg, prompting Atlanta to bring in backup Storm Norton. The injury comes at a crucial moment in the game, as the Falcons’ offensive line will need to adapt to protect Kirk Cousins and keep their drive alive following the roughing the passer penalty on Kansas City’s Chris Jones.
Roughing the Passer on Chris Jones Keeps Falcons’ Drive Alive as McGary Suffers Injury
Harrison Butker’s kickoff resulted in a touchback, allowing Kirk Cousins and the Falcons to start their drive from the 30-yard line. Cousins’ first pass attempt fell incomplete to Ray-Ray McCloud, before handing the ball off to Tyler Allgeier for a 4-yard gain, setting up 3rd & 6 with just under nine minutes left in the half. Cousins then looked deep down the sideline for Drake London, but solid coverage forced an incompletion. However, a roughing the passer penalty on Kansas City’s Chris Jones negated the stop, turning a likely punt into a fresh set of downs near midfield for Atlanta. Adding to the Falcons’ concerns, offensive tackle Kaleb McGary was injured on the play.
Mahomes to Rice: Chiefs Tie the Game as Roughing the Passer Penalty Affirms TD
Patrick Mahomes missed Carson Steele on an aerial attempt but quickly recovered with a 7-yard completion to Xavier Worthy, setting up 3rd & 3 at the Falcons’ 13-yard line. TOUCHDOWN CHIEFS! Mahomes found Rashee Rice on the left side at the 7-yard line, and Rice turned upfield to easily run it in for the score. A flag for roughing the passer on Atlanta’s Lorenzo Carter confirmed the touchdown, and Harrison Butker’s extra point tied the game at seven apiece, leveling the contest as the Chiefs responded to Atlanta’s early lead.
Chiefs March Into Red Zone as Perine and Rice Lead the Charge
Patrick Mahomes opened the second quarter with a 6-yard pass to Rashee Rice, followed by a 3-yard run from Samaje Perine. Tight end Travis Kelce then grabbed a short 3-yard reception to move the chains, and Carson Steele followed with a 3-yard run, setting up 2nd & 7 from the Chiefs’ 36-yard line. Rice continued to shine, turning a short pass into a 12-yard gain for a fresh set of downs, while Perine powered forward with another 9-yard carry to reach the Falcons’ 43. Perine kept the momentum going, racking up 10 more yards on two consecutive carries down to the Falcons’ 33. Facing pressure, Mahomes threw an incomplete pass toward Perine, setting up a crucial 3rd & 8. The Chiefs pushed into the red zone as Mahomes connected with Justin Watson on the sideline at the Falcons’ 20. On the next play, Perine was stuffed at the line of scrimmage as flags flew–resulting in offsetting penalties for an illegal formation by Kansas City’s Kingsley Suamataia and holding on Atlanta’s Ta’Quon Graham.
END OF Q1
Justin Simmons Snags Another Interception Against Mahomes to Keep Falcons Ahead
INTERCEPTION! Atlanta Falcons safety Justin Simmons makes a game-changing play, picking off Patrick Mahomes in the end zone for his sixth career interception against the star quarterback. Simmons’ clutch turnover halts an eight-minute Kansas City drive, keeping the Falcons in the lead with 2:46 left in the first quarter. Atlanta took over at their own 20, with Robinson sparking the offense with two carries for 12 yards and a first down. After a tackle for a loss and a short gain from Mooney, a 3rd & 9 pass attempt to Kyle Pitts fell short, compounded by an illegal use of hands penalty on Jake Matthews. The Falcons were forced to punt, with Bradley Pinion launching a 58-yard kick to the Chiefs’ 9-yard line. Mecole Hardman returned it 12 yards, setting up Kansas City at their own 21 as the first quarter ended.
Chiefs March Forward as Falcons’ Penalty Gives Kansas City Key Yardage
Samaje Perine took a handoff for a 4-yard gain, followed by Carson Steele adding three more yards to secure a first down at the Falcons’ 16-yard line. Patrick Mahomes then connected with Steele again for a short 2-yard gain. Rashee Rice made a crucial 6-yard reception, pushing the Chiefs to the Falcons’ 28-yard line. Atlanta was then penalized for having too many men on the field, gifting Kansas City an additional five yards and setting them up in prime scoring position.
Chiefs Survive Falcons’ Challenge as Mahomes Keeps the Drive Alive
Patrick Mahomes aimed for JuJu Smith-Schuster across the middle but missed the mark, bouncing back with a 9-yard scramble to the Atlanta 39-yard line, setting up a 3rd & 1. Kansas City called a timeout with 7:33 left in the quarter. On the next play, Falcons’ offensive lineman Kingsley Suamataia stuffed Carson Steele just short of the first down marker. Chiefs head coach Andy Reid, however, chose to go for it on 4th down, and Rashee Rice appeared to secure the first down. Atlanta challenged the call, but after review, the ruling stood, keeping Kansas City’s drive alive at the Falcons’ 38. Mahomes then took a shot in the end zone targeting Xavier Worthy, only for Falcons cornerback Mike Hughes to nearly pick it off. Mahomes regrouped and found Smith-Schuster for a short 4-yard gain.
Mahomes Finds Rhythm as Chiefs Push into Falcons Territory on Opening Drive
Patrick Mahomes’ first pass attempt of the game fell incomplete toward the sideline, intended for Rashee Rice, but he quickly rebounded by connecting with Xavier Worthy for a first down. Worthy then followed up with a 6-yard reception, setting up a 2nd & 4 at the Chiefs’ 27-yard line. Rookie fullback Carson Steele took his first handoff of the night, gaining six yards and moving the chains. Mahomes then hit his trusted target, Travis Kelce, for a short 2-yard gain before firing a 17-yard strike to Rashee Rice, pushing Kansas City into Falcons territory.
Falcons Strike Early as Cousins Hits London for Touchdown on Opening Drive
TOUCHDOWN ATLANTA! On 3rd & 3, Kirk Cousins capped off the Falcons’ opening drive by finding Drake London wide open in the left corner of the end zone, putting Atlanta on the board just 3:53 into the game. Cousins was flawless on the drive, completing all five of his passes for 66 yards. Younghoe Koo added the extra point, giving the Falcons an early seven-point lead. Following the score, Bradley Pinion’s kickoff was returned by Kansas City’s Mecole Hardman to the 21-yard line, but a holding call on linebacker Leo Chenal pushed the Chiefs back 10 yards to start their first drive from their own 11.
Cousins Finds McCloud Twice as Falcons Advance to Chiefs 14-Yard Line
The Atlanta Falcons’ first play of the game saw running back Robinson tackled for a loss of one yard. However, quarterback Kirk Cousins quickly turned things around with a 15-yard pass to Ray-Ray McCloud, pushing the Falcons just outside Kansas City’s red zone. On Robinson’s second carry, he gained five yards, followed by another connection between Cousins and McCloud for two more, advancing the ball to the Chiefs’ 14-yard line.Atlanta’s offense is now in prime position to strike early against Kansas City’s defense.
Chiefs Defer as Falcons Drive Downfield Behind Cousins and Mooney
The Kansas City Chiefs have won the toss and opted to defer, kicking off to the Atlanta Falcons to begin the game. Harrison Butker launched the opening kick for a touchback, giving the Falcons possession at their own 30-yard line. Quarterback Kirk Cousins wasted no time, connecting with wide receiver Darnell Mooney for a 9-yard gain along the right sideline. On the very next play, Cousins found Mooney deep again, this time pushing the ball to the Kansas City 35, setting up a new set of downs for Atlanta as they march down the field.
Chiefs Name Rookie Carson Steele as Starting Running Back Ahead of Kickoff
With just 20 minutes until kickoff, the Kansas City Chiefs have confirmed that undrafted rookie fullback Carson Steele will step in as the starting running back for today’s game. The UCLA product, who has recorded nine carries for 27 yards and a fumble in his first two NFL appearances, is expected to play a pivotal role in the Chiefs’ offensive strategy. As the team looks to shake up its backfield, all eyes will be on Steele to prove his worth on the big stage.
Celebrities Flock to Atlanta Hawks vs Kansas City Chiefs Game as NFL Stars Take the Field
Tonight’s star-studded game is drawing major attention, with A-listers like Samuel L. Jackson, competitive eater Joey Chestnut, and NBA sensation Zaccharie Risacher in attendance. Risacher, the Hawks’ No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, made headlines by swapping jerseys with Falcons linebacker Lorenzo Carter before the game. Meanwhile, Kansas City Chiefs fans will be watching as LT Wanya Morris, fresh off a touchdown catch last week, earns his first start against the Falcons. Also on the radar is Falcons safety Justin Simmons, who has intercepted Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes five times–more than any other player in the league. Though rumors swirled about a potential Taylor Swift appearance, the pop icon has yet to be spotted.
Kansas City Chiefs 3-Point Favorites Over Atlanta Falcons: BetMGM Odds and Predictions
With just one hour left until kickoff, the Kansas City Chiefs are listed as 3-point favorites to defeat the Atlanta Falcons, according to the latest odds from BetMGM. The over-under for the game is set at 46.5 points, signaling expectations of a closely contested matchup. As Kansas City deals with the absence of key players like running back Isiah Pacheco, bettors will be watching closely to see how the Chiefs adjust their game plan. Meanwhile, Atlanta’s defense gets a boost with the return of several key players, adding intrigue to tonight’s showdown.
Pregame: Kansas City’s Ground Game Takes a Hit, Atlanta Gains a Key Defender
As game time inches closer, both teams have revealed their inactives, and while Kansas City will be without running back Isiah Pacheco–who broke his fibula against the Bengals last week and is now on injured reserve–Atlanta’s defense breathes a sigh of relief. Defensive tackles Grady Jarrett and David Onyemata, both questionable after missing practice all week, are surprisingly active, reinforcing the Falcons’ front line. Additionally, offensive tackle Jake Matthews, limited in practice, will suit up, further solidifying Atlanta’s starting lineup. Defensive back Antonio Hamilton, recently acquired from Arizona, will also make his debut, adding much-needed depth to a Falcons defense preparing for a showdown against the Chiefs.
There’s no official confirmation that Taylor Swift will be at Mercedes-Benz Stadium tonight, but the Falcons QB Kirk Cousins believes she’d have no problem making it if she wanted to.
The Falcons cheerleaders arrived at the stadium early to start setting the mood.
Linebacker Lorenzo Carter and defensive end Grady Jarrett know what’s at stake in their matchup against the Chiefs.
The Chiefs are beginning to arrive at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Quarterback Patrick Mahomes arrived in style.
Player to watch in Atlanta
Falcons tight end Kyle Pitts has had limited involvement this season, with just six receptions for 46 yards. However, he could see a significant boost on Sunday as the Chiefs have struggled to defend tight ends, allowing a league-high 276 yards and a touchdown in the first two weeks.
Last week, the Bengals’ Mike Gesicki and Erick All combined for 11 catches on 13 targets for 126 yards against Kansas City. This presents a prime opportunity for Pitts to shine and further enhance the Falcons’ offense under quarterback Kirk Cousins’ leadership.
Player to watch in Kansas City
After going largely unnoticed in his first two games, all eyes will be on Travis Kelce. The star tight end will get a chance to shine again in the absence of Hollywood Brown and Isiah Pacheco.
Kelce was quarterback Patrick Mahomes’ best weapon last season and with two of his favorite targets out of action, the responsibility will once again fall on the star tight end.
What to watch Atlanta
In Week 2, Falcons offensive coordinator Zac Robinson successfully ignited the run game, with Bijan Robinson and Tyler Allgeier combining for 150 rushing yards, key to the team’s win. Facing a middle-tier rushing defense, the Falcons are likely to rely heavily on their running game to counteract the Chiefs’ aggressive pass rush, led by All-Pro defensive tackle Chris Jones.
Running Bijan Robinson from under center has been highly effective, with a 77.8% success rate, according to Next Gen Stats, as noted by Falcons reporter Tori McElhaney.
What to watch in Kansas City
The Chiefs will look to exploit the middle of the field, where Rashee Rice and Travis Kelce should have a significant advantage over the Falcons’ linebackers. Expect KC to lean heavily on their passing game to outmaneuver the Falcons’ zone-heavy defense.
On the defensive side, Kansas City will focus on limiting Bijan Robinson’s impact and forcing the Falcons into obvious passing situations. Chris Jones is expected to wreak havoc on Cousins’ pocket, and if the Chiefs can generate enough pressure, it will make life difficult for Atlanta’s offense.
Kickoff and odds
The game is set to tip off at 6:30 p.m. ET at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
Despite being on the road, the Chiefs remain the odds-on favorites at -165, while the Falcons are at +140.
Where to watch Chiefs – Falcons on TV
NBC will be in charge of the live broadcast and the game will be available online on DAZN.
Even with questions surrounding the Chiefs’ offense early in the season, particularly after losing Isiah Pacheco, this game could serve as a breakout moment for Mahomes and his receivers.
With the Falcons’ offensive line facing a tough test, Kansas City’s defense could play a pivotal role in the outcome, potentially even scoring a defensive touchdown for the second consecutive game.
Despite Atlanta’s talent and potential, Kansas City simply boasts more firepower on both sides of the ball. While it may not be a flawless performance, Mahomes and the Chiefs are poised to secure a decisive win, cementing their dominance in this early-season interconference clash.