Week 6: vs Denver Broncos (7:15, Amazon Prime)
This matchup initiates the Chiefs' season series of intra-divisional clashes, also marking the first of three consecutive AFC West showdowns in October. Additionally, it marks the debut encounter against the Sean Payton-led Broncos.
Although the Chiefs boast an impressive 15-game winning streak against the Broncos, it's worth noting that not every contest has been a walk in the park. Both meetings in 2022 were tense affairs, with Denver presenting genuine opportunities to win both games.
Factoring in the enhancements to their coaching staff, Denver's anticipated improvement is palpable. While whether this elevation translates into a playoff berth remains uncertain, it's evident that Kansas City should brace for a real challenge. This game may not be a straightforward triumph for them, yet the Chiefs hold the edge and secure the victory.
Result: Chiefs WIN 27-24 and ride to 6-0.
Week 7: vs Los Angeles Chargers (3:25, CBS)
With the ambition of achieving a 7-0 start, a feat they haven't accomplished since 2013, the Kansas City Chiefs will host the Los Angeles Chargers, led by Justin Herbert.
Past encounters between the Chiefs and Justin Herbert, spanning five contests when the former has actually played their starters, have been anything but straightforward. Herbert's prowess as an elite quarterback coupled with the Chargers' considerable talent on both offense and defense has posed a challenge for KC. However, a notable weak point has been the coaching dimension, with Brandon Staley's performance leaving something to be desired. The Chargers have exhibited shortcomings in situational football, particularly against the Chiefs in recent years.
While the matchup won't be a walk in the park for the Chiefs, they hold the upper hand, being at home. While an upset wouldn't be entirely shocking, the Chiefs are favored to secure the victory in this game.
Result: Chiefs WIN 34-30 and charge to 7-0.
Week 8: at Denver Broncos (3:25, CBS)
There isn't much more to talk about since we just discussed the first matchup between these two teams.
However, a key departure lies in my less optimistic projection for this encounter – regrettably, I foresee the Chiefs succumbing to their first defeat of this season. As much as I want the 15-game winning streak against the Denver Donkeys to continue, it's an inevitable truth that all streaks must eventually come to an end.
Denver's roster boasts a formidable defense, evident from their commendable challenge posed to the Chiefs twice last season. While luck has sometimes tipped in their favor, it's pragmatic to acknowledge that this trend might not persist. Additionally, history suggests that the Chiefs tend to drop a game or two unexpectedly every season.
Although a loss here would be a tough pill to swallow, it's within the realm of possibility that luck may not always be on the Chiefs' side.
Result: Chiefs LOSE 26-23 and fall to 7-1.