Chiefs schedule 2016: Going week-by-week

Atlanta Falcons (away)

Date: Dec. 4
Time: 12 p.m. CST
Channel: CBS

What has changed: Atlanta has tried to beef up the offense this offseason under general manager Thomas Dimitroff and right-hand man Scott Pioli. The Falcons signed center Alex Mack away from the Cleveland Browns on a five-year deal, and while he is past his prime, he remains a very solid player. The Falcons also signed wide receiver Mohamed Sanu to a contract worth $7 million per season, which is insane.

It’s going to be much of the same on defense for the Falcons, which is a major problem. Atlanta has a defensive-minded head coach in Dan Quinn, but he does not have much talent to work with. Vic Beasley Jr. led the team in sacks as a rookie, which is great news except for that he did so with four.

Should they scare you?: The only real source of anxiety for this game is the trio of Matt Ryan, Julio Jones and Devonta Freeman. Atlanta can score points and will make some big plays, but the Chiefs have the tools to shut them down. Kansas City is built to stop Freeman on the ground and should be able to contain Jones with a combination of Marcus Peters and either Ron Parker or Eric Berry over the top.

Offensively, the Chiefs should score at will. Kansas City has a much-improved offensive line that should push around Atlanta’s front throughout the contest. Also, look for Travis Kelce and Jeremy Maclin to have big days.

Prediction: 30-20, Chiefs

Next: Game #13