(Above Image Credit: Marca)

When: Thursday, Sept. 7th, 8:20 PM EST

Where: GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium (Kansas City, MO)

Channel: NBC (check your listings)

The 2023 NFL season kicks off this Thursday night with Detroit vs. Kansas City.

Kansas City Complications

The Kansas City Chiefs might be focused on the Detroit Lions, but they are also dealing with some issues outside the field. The first issue is Travis Kelce.

According to head coach Andy Reid, Kelce’s status for Thursday is now questionable after he injured his knee during practice this past Tuesday. No further details about it were revealed when he announced it during his press conference.

The second issue is Chris Jones and his holdout. The All-Pro defensive tackle is entering the last year of his 4-year, $80 million contract. Unfortunately, he has missed out on training camps, offseason practices, and the entire preseason.

He now has a buildup of fines that he has yet to pay up for his lack of participation, and there is no clue to determine if or when he will end his holdout.

Can Detroit Make a Statement?

The Lions enter their season after barely missing the playoffs last year. They started last season losing six of their first seven games, then they had a breakthrough and won eight of their last 10 games. Like any other team, they hope things will be different this year.

During the offseason, they traded D’Andre Swift to the Eagles, and Jamaal Williams left to join the New Orleans Saints. On the plus side, they also signed David Montgomery, drafted Jahmyr Gibbs from Alabama, and acquired C.J. Gardner-Johnson from the Philadelphia Eagles.

The new additions will definitely bring some attention to the Lions. Already, few sources believe that they have a chance to win the NFC North. Only time will tell though.

Detroit vs. Kansas City: Final Thoughts and Prediction

Patrick Mahomes will have to face the challenge of not having two of his most reliable teammates by his side. With Kelce injured and Jones MIA, the rest of the offense will have to step up and get on their level if they want to win or survive.

Detroit’s defense can be able to put in a few sacks with Mahomes, but they must never underestimate his quarterback skills. Having a veteran defensive player like Gardner-Johnson, however, will give him and the Chiefs offense something to worry about.

Do I believe that the Lions have everything they need to steer the reigning champions way off course? Probably not. Could there be an upset on Thursday night? Maybe.

The possibility of an upset will depend on how much the Lions defense will hold back the Chiefs offense.

All I know is this Detroit vs. Kansas City game will be just the first taste of what’s to come this season.

Final Score Prediction: Lions 27, Chiefs 24