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USA Today via Reuters
IMAGO / USA TODAY Network Syndication: Detroit Free Press Detroit Lions linebacker Jalen Reeves-Maybin (42) celebrates a tackle against Kansas City Chiefs during the first half at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Mo. on Thursday, Sept. 7, 2023., | Image Courtesy: Imago
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USA Today via Reuters
IMAGO / USA TODAY Network Syndication: Detroit Free Press Detroit Lions linebacker Jalen Reeves-Maybin (42) celebrates a tackle against Kansas City Chiefs during the first half at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Mo. on Thursday, Sept. 7, 2023., | Image Courtesy: Imago
The Kansas City Chiefs were unable to repeat history, much like their previous season. The preseason ended with a 2-1 record, just like last year. However, the season opener didn’t unfold as it did during their Super Bowl-winning season. The loudest stage in the country fell silent as Patrick Mahomes faced an uphill battle against the new NFC powerhouse.
The Lions dominated the gridiron, with both their offense and defense outperforming the Chiefs at every turn. Although it was a narrow loss, this showdown serves as a testament to the Silver Crush’s resurgence in the upcoming season.
Is the Chiefs’ reign over?
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Last year’s Super Bowl, featuring the Chiefs and the Eagles, was decided by a field goal from Harrison Butker. In this season’s kickoff bout, Butker once again contributed six points with two successful field goals from 35 and 39 yards. However, the Silver Crush had several tricks up their sleeves, as RB David Montgomery scored a breath-taking eight-yard touchdown run, erasing the 6-point lead held by the defending champs.
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via Imago
NFL, American Football Herren, USA Detroit Lions at Kansas City Chiefs Sep 7, 2023; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) reaches for a first down as Detroit Lions defensive end John Cominsky (79) makes the tackle during the first half at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Kansas City GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium Missouri USA, EDITORIAL USE ONLY PUBLICATIONxINxGERxSUIxAUTxONLY Copyright: xDennyxMedleyx 20230907_szo_sm8_0082
The Chiefs attempted to regain the lead with a trick play that didn’t go as planned. Instead of Mahomes, TE Blake Bell took the snap and handed the ball to WR Rashee Rice on an end-around, resulting in a three-yard loss and a punt for the opposition. The game concluded with an incomplete pass from the reigning MVP, eventually giving the Lions control of the ball.
Notably, the defending champs faced these significant challenges due to the absence of key starters, which became a great advantage for the Lions.
Patrick Mahomes played without his two weapons!
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Both the Chiefs’ offense and defense struggled in their season opener, primarily due to the absence of two key players. Mahomes’ top target, Travis Kelce, watched from the sidelines as he recovers from a knee injury. The outcome might have been different if the 2x SB champ had been available. Thankfully, his injury is expected to heal soon, and he should be back for the showdown with the Jaguars.
Furthermore, the defensive leader, Chris Jones, was absent from the game due to a contract dispute with the Chiefs. He’s currently accumulating fines, facing up to $1.1 million in penalties for each game he misses. The Lions capitalized on his absence, dismantling the Chiefs’ defense effortlessly.
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via Reuters
NFL Football – Super Bowl LV – Tampa Bay Buccaneers v Kansas City Chiefs – Raymond James Stadium, Tampa, Florida, U.S. – February 7, 2021 Kansas City Chiefs’ Patrick Mahomes reacts REUTERS/Shannon Stapleton
This game could pave the way for the Silver Crush to make a comeback, a team that endured a 6-year playoff drought. The Chiefs, on the other hand, hope to bounce back with a full roster. What are your thoughts? Can the Chiefs repeat their success this year? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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