On Sunday, September 22, 2024, the Kansas City Chiefs will face the Atlanta Falcons at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia, for a highly anticipated Week 3 matchup in the NFL. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:00 PM ET, with live coverage on NBC and Peacock. Both teams are coming off close victories and are looking to build momentum heading into the next stretch of the season(NFL.com)(NBC Sports).
Kansas City Chiefs Overview
The Chiefs, led by star quarterback Patrick Mahomes, are eyeing their third consecutive Super Bowl championship, an unprecedented feat in NFL history. Last week, the Chiefs pulled off a thrilling comeback win over the Cincinnati Bengals, 26-25, after trailing by 16 points at halftime. Mahomes threw for 151 yards, with two touchdowns and two interceptions, making history with his 76th career win in just 98 games, tying legends like Tom Brady(NBC Sports).
Wide receiver Rashee Rice continues to impress in his second season, leading the team with 75 receiving yards on five receptions and a touchdown in the last game. Travis Kelce, the Chiefs’ star tight end, is also expected to play a pivotal role in the offense despite acknowledging the need for improvement(NFL.com).
However, Kansas City will be missing running back Isiah Pacheco, who recently underwent surgery and is expected to be sidelined for 6-8 weeks(NBC Sports).
Atlanta Falcons Outlook
The Falcons come into this matchup following a 22-21 victory over the Philadelphia Eagles. Kirk Cousins, the Falcons’ quarterback, showed his clutch ability in the final moments, throwing a game-tying touchdown pass to wide receiver Drake London with only 34 seconds left. A successful extra point from Younghoe Koo sealed the win(NFL.com).
Cousins, who joined Atlanta this year after six seasons with the Minnesota Vikings, signed a massive four-year, $180 million contract in the offseason. The Falcons are hoping that his leadership and consistency can end their six-year playoff drought(NBC Sports). With weapons like tight end Kyle Pitts and running back Bijan Robinson, Atlanta’s offense is one to watch as they attempt to upset the reigning champions.
Key Player Stats
- Patrick Mahomes: 151 passing yards, 2 TDs, 2 INTs in last game.
- Rashee Rice: 75 receiving yards, 5 receptions, 1 TD.
- Travis Kelce: Critical to the Chiefs’ offense, but seeking improvement(NFL.com)(NBC Sports).
- Kirk Cousins: 63 passing yards and a game-tying TD pass against the Eagles.
- Kyle Pitts is expected to be a key factor in the Falcons’ aerial attack.
Prediction and Expectations
This game promises to be an exciting contest between the high-powered Chiefs offense and an Atlanta team on the rise. Mahomes will look to exploit the Falcons’ defense, while Cousins aims to solidify his place as Atlanta’s new leader. Despite the Falcons’ momentum, the Chiefs are favored to win this game based on their recent performance and overall talent.
Where to Watch
Fans can catch this game live on NBC and Peacock, with pregame coverage starting at 7:00 PM ET. For those looking to stream, Peacock will provide live-streaming options for Sunday Night Football(NBC Sports).
