- NFL. NFL's $4 Billion Sunday Ticket battle takes turn as judge instigates unexpected courtroom drama
- NFL. Chargers concerned after Justin Herbert's injury in practice that affects his mobility once again
We could say the new NFL season has officially started with the Chicago Bears' 21-17 victory over the Houston Texans in the Pro Football Hall of Fame game yesterday in Canton, Ohio. This game marks the first of over 300 we will witness across three weeks of preseason, 18 weeks of regular season, and the playoffs. All in just over six months, so NFL fans, football is back!
Chargers Positioned to Challenge Chiefs
The Los Angeles Chargers, led by Justin Herbert, are being seen as the serious contenders to challenge the Chiefs for the AFC West crown. Herbert, who holds a 2-5 record against the Chiefs, is expected to lead a robust campaign this season. Experts from "The Herd" show believe the Chargers' new depth and offensive weapons could give them an edge, especially if the Chiefs' new wide receivers do not step up. With Mahomes' record (30-5) of 85.71% effectiveness against division rivals, the Chiefs have an advantage, it seems like the Chargers, Raiders and Broncos have been shaking in their boots since Mahomes has been here.
In contrast, the Las Vegas Raiders and Denver Broncos are not expected to pose significant threats in the division. Both teams have struggled with consistency and roster issues, making it unlikely for them to challenge the Chiefs or Chargers for the top spot. The Chargers, for me, in contrast to the show, aren't a safety this year either with a new head coach in Jim Harbaugh, the departures of veterans Keenan Allen, Mike Williams and Austin Ekelerleave Justin Herbert with an offensive group that are a total uncertainty. Meanwhile the Raiders and Broncos will need to make significant improvements if they hope to even compete in their own division let alone the AFC.
Chiefs' Wide Receiver Woes Raise Concerns
As the NFL season approaches, skepticism is growing around the Kansas City Chiefs' wide receiver group. Analysts, again from the "Herd Show" have ranked their receiving corps among the bottom seven in the league, raising questions about the Chiefs' ability to maintain their offensive dominance. Despite these concerns, Patrick Mahomes' impressive record of 30-5 against AFC West rivals and 54-17 against the AFC provides some reassurance. The Chiefs are aiming for their ninth AFC West title, just two shy of the Patriots' record 11.
However, the effectiveness of their offense is not necessarily based on the performance of their receivers. Last year they were champions and if it wasn't for the brilliance of then rookie Rashee Rice, who now had the most post season receptions by a rookie (26), the Chifes WR were nothing spectacular.