The 4 most exciting matchups for the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 1
By Matt Conner
3. Houston Texans
Every year we're presented with the exciting young team that's predicted to upend the steady success of the Chiefs and the Houston Texans are undoubtedly this year's entry. However, there's some real substance to this team and the way in which their roster is constructed, so no one wants to laugh off the idea of the Texans as a tough opponent just yet.
CJ Stroud leads the way here for an offense that shocked everyone a year ago with the level of productivity despite a middling receiving corps, at least on paper. Since then, the unit has traded for Joe Mixon from the Bengals, drafted tight end Cade Stover, and imported Stefon Diggs of the Buffalo Bills.
On the defensive side, Will Anderson was the real deal last year as a rookie but the Texans have only poured it on thick up front with Danielle Hunter and Denico Autry joining the mix. Derek Stingley Jr. is also back to lead a young secondary, and Chiefs fans will appreciate the boost that Tommy Townsend provides as the new punter.
The Texans will be hyped up more than needed, but unlike most preseason favorites, there's a lot of substance here to buy into. If Stroud doesn't suffer a sophomore slump, this could be a thrilling matchup to watch against an ascending conference foe.