Week 9 (Germany): vs Miami Dolphins (8:30 AM, NFL Network)
It's the long-awaited "revenge game" that has captured the attention of both Chiefs and Dolphins fans. This centers around Tyreek Hill's much-anticipated clash with his former team, albeit not on in Kansas City or Miami. This intriguing matchup is set to unfold in Frankfurt, Germany, as a highlight of the NFL's 2023 International Series.
Anticipation for this contest is notably high, ranking among the most thrilling matchups on the Chiefs' 2023 regular season schedule. The Dolphins boast an explosively potent offense, spearheaded by standout receivers Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle, complemented by quarterback Tua Tagovailoa. While Tua's availability hinges on his health, predicting injuries this far in advance remains uncertain. It is, however, established that star cornerback Jalen Ramsey will likely be out due to a knee injury.
Anticipate an exciting game, primed to provide German fans with a spectacle. Fireworks are almost guaranteed, and while both teams are set to shine, it's the Chiefs who are poised to emerge victorious from this international showdown.
Result: Chiefs WIN 38-35 and swim to 8-1.
Week 10: Bye Week
Week 11: vs Philadelphia Eagles (7:15, ESPN/ABC)
The Eagles-Chiefs matchup stands out as one of the NFL's most highly anticipated games this season. What's not to love? A rematch of Super Bowl LVII, set to unfold under the Monday Night Football spotlight at Arrowhead Stadium. The Kelce brothers' clash offers an enticing subplot, with the possibility of this being their final encounter unless fate has them cross paths once more in Super Bowl LVIII.
Regrettably, I envision the Chiefs encountering a stumble in this game. While they possess the potential to emerge victorious in every contest, it's realistic to acknowledge that a perfect season is a rare feat. In the event they do face a couple of regular-season losses, it's hard to fault them for falling to a team as talented as the Eagles. The Eagles will also be hungry for revenge. It also stinks that both teams will be coming off their bye week, so that advantage for the Chiefs is somewhat neutralized.
On a separate note, it's somewhat surprising to consider that the Chiefs have yet to achieve an undefeated regular season at home during the Patrick Mahomes era, a feat that hasn't been accomplished by the team since 2003. Remarkably, the franchise has never attained an unblemished home season across both regular and postseason play in its entire history. While the prospect is enticing, it undeniably presents a considerable challenge to accomplish.
Result: Chiefs LOSE 30-26 and stumble to 8-2.
Week 12: at Las Vegas Raiders (3:25, CBS)
Let's not waste much time on this game. Josh McDaniels may not last this long and the Raiders may very well be tanking for Caleb Williams at this point.
Although the Chiefs have displayed a tendency to start sluggishly against lesser opponents, I'm inclined to believe this won't be the case in this matchup.
Result: Chiefs WIN 45-17 and rise to 9-2.