Can the Patriots upset the Chiefs?

Heading into Sunday’s highly-anticipated game against the Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium, the Pats are seven-point underdogs for just the third time in 18 years.  While this does have to do with the absence of Tom Brady and the limited sample size in regards to what we’ve seen from Cam Newton, it’s more a reflection on just how good their opponent is.

Kansas City is undoubtedly the gold standard in the NFL right now.  Defending champs, 3-0, and they just blew the doors off a good Baltimore team on the road.  Patrick Mahomes and Lamar Jackson are labeled as the best young quarterbacks in the league, and rightfully so.  But every time those two teams match up, we’re reminded of how much further along Mahomes is in his development.  The man is elite.

Here’s what Bill Belichick had to say about Mahomes and the KC offense:

“I mean they’re really good,” Belichick said. “It starts with an MVP quarterback and great offensive coordinator and head coach. Andy [Reid] does a tremendous job putting pressure on the defense. They’ve got a lot of good skill players, a lot of experienced players. I think the backs are a big weapon for them, both in the running game and in the passing game.” 

The Chiefs are also impressive on defense, although their major weakness is stopping the run.  This is an opportunity for Cam and his backs to have a big game on the ground.  If the Pats’ D can hold them under 30 like the Chargers did a couple weeks ago, I think they have the speed and skill on offense to outscore them.

Kick-off will be on Sunday afternoon at 4:25.

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