Kansas City Chiefs outside linebacker Tamba Hali (91) seen during warmups before the game against the Indianapolis Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory credit: Michael Hickey-USA TODAY Sports
It’s going to be a bright, sunny Florida day when the Chiefs take the field in Jacksonville to open their season against the Jaguars.
It’s expected to hover around 86˚-87˚F (30˚-30.5˚C) through the duration of the game with a heat index of 91˚F (32.7˚C) due to the humidity checking in at about 57% around kickoff. Wind shouldn’t be a factor, expected at around 7-8 mph (11-12 kph) to the northeast.
This should make for ideal conditions for both quarterbacks – Alex Smith and Blaine Gabbert – neither of which sports the strongest of arms, but who can be deadly accurate in short-to-intermediate throws.
The relatively high heat and humidity could start to wear on defensive personnel, so watch for each team trying to sustain long drives and keep their defense rested. If either team can get the opposing defense on its heels for long drives, they should see an advantage late in the game.