Patrick Mahomes and Chiefs are ready to steamroll Raiders, says Week 13 odds

The Kansas City Chiefs open up a new week in the NFL heavily favored by 13.5 points against the Las Vegas Raiders heading into their second scheduled game of the season. The lopsided opening spread reflects the stark contrast between the two teams’ trajectories as the year approaches its final stretch.

The Chiefs sit at the top of the AFC West for yet another season, even after having won 8 consecutive division titles. At present, the Chiefs hold a multiple-game edge over the next closest competitor and Kansas City should have no problem finishing out the season in first place once again. At 10-1, they're in pole position for the top seed in the AFC as well.

The Chiefs are heavy 13.5-point favorites over the Raiders in Week 13, reflecting Kansas City's dominance and Las Vegas' struggles this season.

Meanwhile, the Raiders have endured a turbulent season. Despite flashes of promise from rookie tight end Brock Bowers, inconsistency and injuries have plagued their offense. Their defense has struggled to contain high-caliber offenses, and a lack of depth in the secondary could spell disaster against Mahomes and his arsenal of weapons.

The 13.5-point spread also considers the Chiefs’ recent dominance in the rivalry. Kansas City has won 16 of their last 19 meetings against the Raiders, often by double digits. With the game at Arrowhead Stadium, where the Chiefs thrive, oddsmakers are confident in Kansas City’s ability to cover the large spread.

However, divisional games can be unpredictable. The Raiders, under interim coach Antonio Pierce, have surprised the Chiefs before—including as recently as last season. The Raiders also play the Chiefs very physically and tend to give Mahomes fits. Maxx Crosby and company could make things tougher than expected.