10 AFC predictions for Week 1 of 2018 NFL season
By Ian Wharton
6. Patrick Mahomes will think he’s back at Texas Tech
It’s impossible to be down on the 2018 Kansas City Chiefs offense. They boast the fastest group of pass catchers in the league, a strong offensive line, Kareem Hunt, and one of the three most physically gifted throwers starting this weekend. Add in Andy Reid’s progressive and dynamic scheme, and the Chiefs will be a top-five offense.
But it’s the other side of the ball that’ll remind quarterback Patrick Mahomes of in his Texas Tech situation. The Red Raiders averaged over 50 throws for 463 yards and 43.7 points per game, but their defense was last with 43.5 points allowed per game.
The Chiefs may not be the worst defense in the league, but it’s going to be in the bottom quartile. The star trio of Justin Houston, Eric Berry, and Kendall Fuller is legitimately great, but the unit as a whole lacks explosiveness and upside. Someone must emerge as a consistent playmaker, whether it be Chris Jones, Dee Ford, or Steven Nelson.
If they don’t, the Chargers will be ready to light them up and engage in an offensive struggle.