In a highly anticipated announcement, the NFL revealed that the Kansas City Chiefs will square off against the Baltimore Ravens in the opening game of the 2024 regular season.
Set to take place on Thursday, Sept. 5, the clash will serve as a rematch of last season’s thrilling AFC Championship Game, where the Chiefs narrowly edged out the Ravens.
The news was met with excitement and anticipation across social media.
The NFL’s official X account teased the showdown between quarterbacks Lamar Jackson and Patrick Mahomes.
“Lamar vs. Mahomes to kick off the 2024 season,” the NFL posted.
ESPN analyst Field Yates also joined in the buzz, counting down the days until the return of the NFL.
“115 days until we play football,” Yates posted on X.
Hosting the season’s inaugural game has become a tradition for the reigning Super Bowl champions.
The NFL has also made a strategic effort to feature marquee matchups for these premier games, making the Ravens an ideal choice for the Chiefs’ opening opponent.
The decision was solidified by the memorable showdown between the two teams in last season’s AFC Championship Game, where the Chiefs edged out a narrow 17-10 victory over the Ravens in Baltimore.
The Ravens, hungry to avenge the heartbreaking defeat, have made significant offseason moves to bolster their roster.
Among the notable acquisitions is former Tennessee Titans running back Derrick Henry, whom the Ravens hope will bring his trademark toughness and physicality to their ground game.
Additionally, wide receiver Zay Flowers is poised to build upon his impressive rookie season, where he emerged as a key target for Lamar Jackson.
With high expectations for Flowers to lead the receiving corps, the Ravens are optimistic about their offensive firepower heading into the new season.
Meanwhile, the Chiefs have undergone roster adjustments of their own, bidding farewell to cornerback L’Jarius Sneed and other key contributors from last season’s championship team.
Despite the departures, Kansas City has made strategic moves to strengthen their squad, notably adding speedsters Hollywood Brown and Xavier Worthy to their receiving corps.
What are your thoughts on the opening matchup?
Do you think the NFL should have went with another opponent ahead of Baltimore?
How about both of these teams entering the new season?
Will the Ravens ever get over the hump?
Meanwhile, with Kansas City, do you think they will actually three-peat as Super Bowl champs???