It is the Chargers and the Chiefs in a barn burner of a match-up on TNF. Mahomes and the Chiefs overpowered the Cardinals over 3 quarters, then coasted home while resting starters, which is significant considering the quick turn-around in Week Two. The Chargers prevailed in a much closer match-up vs the Raiders, and were all out until the last series.
Mahomes and Herbert are expected to be the story, and both were superb in Week One. While this match will likely be pass-focused, it is the the success or failure of the respective run games which may play a dominant roll. The success of Edwards-Helaire as a rusher and a receiver, and the emergence of rookie Pacheco may be significant this week. Mahomes wasn't sacked in Week one, but the Chargers' new Mack-Bosa led pass rush had 6 sacks in week one. Not to underestimate that duo, and Mahomes has too many options to allow that kind of pressure, but he likely won't emerge this week unscathed. The Chargers' defense barely face a run game (just 13 plays) and still allowed a rushing yards-against average of nearly 5 yards. On offense the Chargers' run game was most unimpressive, averaging under 3 yds a carry over 31 plays.
On Defense, the Chiefs Sacked Murray three times, and limited the Cardinals on the ground and in the air. Like Mahomes, Herbert was not sacked in week one, but I expect him to have a much rougher ride this time around. He likely will be without Allen, his favorite target in week one.
It is hard to doubt the Chiefs after such a dominant victory in their first game. Mahomes seemed to revel in so many receiving options in week one, and he, of course still has Kelce as a go to. they looked incredibly prepared. The loss of Allen and the lack of a run game will be the difference on Thursday. Take the Chiefs to win and cover.