A thrilling matchup is set for Week 2 as the Kansas City Chiefs prepare to face off against the Cincinnati Bengals at Arrowhead Stadium, with the game broadcast on CBS. Both teams, part of the AFC, have a history of competitive matchups throughout the careers of quarterbacks Joe Burrow and Patrick Mahomes.
Burrow has proved to be a formidable opponent for Mahomes, despite Mahomes holding three Super Bowl titles compared to Burrow’s yet-to-be-won championship. In their encounters, Burrow has bested Mahomes in three out of four games (including playoffs), with all four games being decided by a narrow margin of just three points. Their latest clash occurred during the 2022 AFC Championship, where Mahomes secured his first victory over Burrow, allowing him to advance to the Super Bowl.
As the two teams approach this game, their recent performances highlight differing trends. The Bengals faced an unexpected loss against the New England Patriots in their season opener, while the Chiefs triumphed over the Baltimore Ravens as they aim for a third consecutive championship. With kickoff approaching, here’s what to expect from this matchup, including details on how to watch the game.
Viewing Details:
Date: Sunday, September 15 | Time: 4:25 p.m. ET
Location: Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City
TV: CBS | Stream: Paramount+
Odds: Chiefs -6, Over/Under 48
Bengals Offense Overview:
Cincinnati may be without key wide receiver Tee Higgins for a second consecutive week, as he is listed as doubtful due to a hamstring injury. His absence would severely impact the Bengals’ air attack against Kansas City’s defense. Higgins has been a noticeable threat against the Chiefs, amassing 302 yards and two touchdowns in five games.
Quarterback Joe Burrow’s recovery from wrist surgery has been a hot topic, and his performance in the Week 1 game showed limited aggression, with an average of 5.6 intended air yards per pass attempt. This raises concerns about the Bengals’ offensive capabilities, further compounded by Burrow’s historical struggles at the start of the season.
Wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase will be essential to the Bengals’ game plan, having recorded six receptions for 62 yards in the opener. Despite impressive overall statistics against the Chiefs, Chase will need to elevate his play to help prevent Cincinnati from starting the season 0-2.
Chiefs Offense Preview:
Mahomes typically starts seasons strong, boasting an 11-2 record in the first two weeks, accumulating 41 touchdowns against just five interceptions. In the season opener against Baltimore, Mahomes completed 20 of 28 passes for 291 yards, a touchdown, and an interception, indicating readiness to maintain his impressive form.
Travis Kelce remains a reliable target for Mahomes, while the development of young wide receivers Rashee Rice and Xavier Worthy will be crucial. Rice, targeted nine times in Week 1, caught seven passes for 103 yards. Meanwhile, Worthy made a splash in his debut with two touchdowns, one on a 21-yard run and another on a 35-yard reception.
Running back Isiah Pacheco is also positioned for a significant role against a Bengals defense that struggled in their opener, allowing 170 rushing yards and a touchdown.
Key Matchup:
Cincinnati’s right tackle Trent Brown had a difficult debut, struggling against the Patriots’ defense, which could put Burrow at risk against Chiefs pass rusher George Karlaftis, who is looking for his first sack of the season.
Prediction:
While historically, these teams have engaged in tight contests, this matchup may not be as close. The Bengals appear to be headed towards an 0-2 start, hindered by Burrow’s health and questions regarding their offensive line and receiver corps. In contrast, the Chiefs have improved from their previous season and possess a solid defense. Considering the spread of six points, it seems manageable for Kansas City. Additionally, Burrow and the Bengals have not fared well in the opening weeks of the season.
Projected score: Chiefs 30, Bengals 21
Pick: Chiefs -6