The 2024 NFL season kicked off with a bang! The first game is in the books, and it didn’t disappoint. Lamar Jackson and the Baltimore Ravens almost pushed the defending Super Bowl champs, the Kansas City Chiefs, into overtime. It was a nail-biter until the end, but the Chiefs came out on top, starting the season 1-0, while the Ravens dropped to 0-1. Now, the rest of the NFL gears up for the rest of the action-packed Week 1.
But before we dive into the rest of the details, let’s break down five big questions from Thursday’s opener.
1. Are The Chiefs Still The Team To Beat?
The Chiefs didn’t play a flawless game against the Ravens, but they’re still a dominant force. Kansas City is chasing its third straight title and looks even more explosive than it did in last year’s Super Bowl. Xavier Worthy quickly displayed his elite speed as both a runner and receiver. Rashee Rice was rock-solid over the middle, becoming a reliable No. 1 target for Patrick Mahomes. Steve Spagnuolo’s defense also kept the pressure on up front. Sure, it wasn’t a perfect start, but it was close enough to remind everyone of the unmatched talent, strategy, and depth that Kansas City brings.
Even as back-to-back champions, the 2023 Chiefs weren’t the same team they once were. Last season, they had just one touchdown pass from outside the red zone. Just one. This offseason, Kansas City focused on adding speed. They brought in veteran wide receiver Marquise Brown and used a first-round pick on Texas star Xavier Worthy, who set a record for the fastest 40-yard dash at the 2024 NFL Scouting Combine. Worthy’s speed showed immediately in his NFL debut, including a long touchdown where he blew past the coverage.
The offense wasn’t just about the rookie, though. Isiah Pacheco didn’t put up massive numbers but made a couple of big plays, including a gritty touchdown and a crucial fourth-quarter run. Rashee Rice picked up right where he left off last season with seven catches for 103 yards. By his standards, Mahomes had a relatively quiet game, and Travis Kelce only managed three catches for 34 yards. Despite some early rust, the Chiefs showed they could be nearly unstoppable. Mahomes has too many weapons, thanks to head coach Andy Reid’s offensive genius. And they didn’t even need Marquise Brown, who was sidelined for the game.
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2. Can the Ravens Find Stability On Offense?
Lamar Jackson put on a show with his legs in the Ravens’ opener, rushing for over 120 yards. But his heavy reliance on running highlighted Baltimore’s chaotic offense. Jackson primarily targeted Zay Flowers through the air with short passes, except for a late deep shot to Rashod Bateman. Part of this was due to the Chiefs’ strong defense, but Jackson running so much raises questions about his sustainability over an entire 17-game season.
The Ravens’ 27-20 loss to the Chiefs was brutal, especially with tight end Isaiah Likely coming just millimeters away from a game-tying touchdown that could have forced overtime or allowed a two-point attempt for the win. Baltimore has some work to do, especially on the offensive line, where three new starters struggled. Even their most experienced lineman, left tackle Ronnie Stanley, was flagged multiple times for illegal formations.
But remember, the Chiefs lost their opener last year and still won the Super Bowl. There’s time to fix things. Derrick Henry needs to step up after a lackluster debut with the Ravens. Still, Baltimore may have found a key player for their offense this season. Isaiah Likely didn’t just show up; he exploded against Kansas City. While veteran tight end Mark Andrews was a non-factor with two catches for 14 yards, Likely led the team in targets (12), receptions (9), and receiving yards (111), including Jackson’s only touchdown pass. He nearly added another score, missing it by a toe.
He likely looked like a younger version of Travis Kelce or Andrews before his injuries. It’s too early to call it a changing of the guard, but Likely’s performance didn’t look like a fluke.
3. Will Derrick Henry Get More Carries?
During the offseason, the big man drew significant attention as he joined an already strong rushing team, bringing his powerful frame and solid resume. However, in his debut in purple, he managed only 46 yards on 13 carries, falling short of expectations. Justice Hill frequently replaced him on passing downs, serving as both a blocker and a check-down option for Lamar Jackson. Hill’s usage proved effective, as he contributed well in those situations. Henry’s opportunities were limited since the Ravens spent much of the Chiefs game playing from behind. Depending on future game scripts, Henry could see more carries and a more significant role as the season progresses, mainly if the Ravens aim to establish their ground game early.
4. Has Isaiah Likely Earned The Top TE Spot?
Mark Andrews returned to the field after recovering from his car crash injuries, but his impact against Kansas City was minimal. The three-time Pro Bowler caught only two passes, making it easy to overlook his presence. In contrast, Isaiah Likely emerged as a major force, dominating the middle of the field with nine receptions for 111 yards and a touchdown. He nearly secured a game-tying score, but his foot barely crossed the back of the end zone on the final play, negating the touchdown. While Andrews remains an integral part of the offense, Likely’s standout performance has undoubtedly earned him more snaps and a more prominent role moving forward.
5. Will These Teams Clash Again?
Given their notable flaws, it wouldn’t be surprising to see these two teams clash again in a more significant matchup later. The Kansas City Chiefs faced the Detroit Lions in the opening game of the 2023 season. Detroit made an impressive run, reaching the NFC Championship Game. Meanwhile, the Baltimore Ravens have their challenges to address, especially concerning their inconsistent offensive line. However, their performance in Thursday’s opener highlighted the potential of some of the league’s top contenders. The game showed how these teams, despite their issues, could play an essential role in the playoff picture if they refine their weaknesses and build on their strengths.
Also Read: Pittsburgh Steelers 2024 Season Preview: Pittsburgh Aims For Success With New Quarterbacks
