The Kansas City Chiefs started their Super Bowl defense on a high note, securing a 27-20 win against the Baltimore Ravens in their NFL season opener at Arrowhead Stadium. Quarterback Patrick Mahomes showcased his playmaking ability, completing 20 of 28 passes for 291 yards and a touchdown, despite throwing one interception.
Rookie wide receiver Xavier Worthy made a phenomenal debut, scoring a touchdown on his very first touch in the first quarter with a remarkable 21-yard run. His speed, highlighted by a record-breaking 4.21-second finish in the 2024 NFL Scouting Combine, left Ravens defenders struggling to contain him.
The Chiefs added to their lead in the third quarter when running back Isiah Pacheco powered his way into the end zone, capitalizing on a strategic play led by Mahomes. Kicker Harrison Butker contributed significantly by making two field goals from 31 and 32 yards in the second quarter and successfully converting both extra-point attempts.
On the Ravens' side, quarterback Lamar Jackson completed 26 of 41 passes for 273 yards and rushed 122 yards. Running back Derrick Henry, who joined the team in March, scored the Ravens' only touchdown on a five-yard run. However, Jackson's two critical mistakes—a fumble and an incomplete pass—provided the Chiefs with opportunities to extend their lead.
In the fourth quarter, the Ravens mounted a comeback, narrowing the deficit to three points with a 49-yard touchdown pass from Jackson to tight end Isaiah Likely. Despite a late 32-yard field goal by Ravens' kicker Justin Tucker and an 11-play, 70-yard rally, the game concluded with a disallowed touchdown as Likely's catch barely failed to cross the end zone boundary.
The Chiefs' balanced offense and key defensive plays ensured their victory, setting a promising tone for their Super Bowl defending campaign.
Reference(s):
Chiefs begin Super Bowl defending campaign with close win over Ravens
cgtn.com
