NFL Season Kicks Off Thursday with the Lions at Chiefs

Vegas has the Chiefs as 4.5-point favorites and set the over/under at 53 points. Several factors might affect the betting lines before kickoff on Thursday night, but the overall consensus is that the reigning Super Bowl Champions should emerge victorious. However, Kansas City may not come into the game at full strength, so anything could happen.

Earlier this week, news came out of Kansas City that Star Tight End Travis Kelce hyper-extended his knee at practice. Results from an MRI showed that his knee was intact, but Kelce’s availability remains up in the air before tonight’s game. Also, the Chiefs most disruptive pass-rusher, Chris Jones’s status remains in question. The defensive tackle is holding out so far in 2023. Jones missed training camp and the entire preseason as he seeks a new contract. Reporters at a charity event in Kansas City to see if he feels that holding out is letting his teammates down. He says no.

“How? That’s what I’ve got to ask. How have I let them down? Just like when you have a job, you ask for an extension, and you ask for a raise, you’re not letting anyone down. Who are you letting down if you ask your boss for a raise?” Jones said.

Jones indicated earlier in the offseason that he might hold out until Week 8 of the regular season but said on Wednesday that he’s always open to the possibility of signing a contract and getting on the field immediately.

“We’ll see how this thing goes. Things can change in a matter of days,” Jones said. “Feelings can change, positions can change, situations can change. All we can do is take it an hour at a time.”

On the other side of the field, the Detroit Lions look to prove that they are the new team to beat in the NFC. A win against Kansas City on opening night would go a long way in making a case to that end. Dan Campbell is an incredible motivator, so the Lions should be ready to light up the field. Quarterback Jared Goff needs to start the season off strong to prove that the faith that the Lions placed in him is warranted. Regardless of the outcome, opening night is sure to be a treat to NFL Fans everywhere.

Kickoff is scheduled for 7:20 p.m. The game can be watched on NBC and Peacock.