The undefeated Kansas City Chiefs travel to face a struggling Las Vegas Raiders team on Sunday afternoon. Here’s our preview, which includes a prediction, using the best NFL odds from the top sportsbooks.
NFL Pick: Over 41.5 (-110) at Bet365 (check our Bet365 Review)
Chiefs vs. Raiders
Sunday, October 27, 2024 – 04:25 PM ET at Allegiant Stadium
Chiefs Keep Winning Despite Struggles
Patrick Mahomes overcame two interceptions last week to make key plays with his legs, helping the Chiefs maintain their unbeaten streak by defeating the 49ers 28-18 in a Super Bowl rematch on Sunday.
Though Mahomes had a rare off day in the passing game, throwing for just 154 yards, Kansas City’s ground game picked up the slack. They rushed for a season-high 184 yards and scored four touchdowns on the ground, their best performance in that category since the 2018 playoffs.
The Chiefs’ defense also made a statement by intercepting Brock Purdy three times, adding to Kansas City’s dominant showing. Mahomes finished 16 of 27 passing with 39 rushing yards and a touchdown on the ground, proving his dual-threat ability. Despite a season marked by eight interceptions and only six passing touchdowns, Mahomes has guided the Chiefs to a perfect 6-0 start, making them just the 10th team to do so following a Super Bowl win.
Kareem Hunt led the rushing attack with 78 yards and two touchdowns on 22 carries, while Noah Gray added 66 receiving yards on four catches. Mecole Hardman chipped in with 38 rushing yards and a touchdown on two carries, plus a 17-yard reception.
Raiders’ Turnovers Lead to Another Defeat
The Raiders are coming off a tough 20-15 loss to the Rams, where turnovers proved costly. Gardner Minshew, who took over for Aidan O’Connell after he left the game with a hand injury, struggled under center. Minshew threw for 154 yards but couldn’t guide the offense to the end zone, as the Raiders settled for five field goals by Daniel Carlson.
Minshew had three interceptions and struggled to generate momentum, particularly in the red zone. The Raiders will need to reassess their offensive strategy, especially after the trade of star wide receiver Davante Adams to the Jets. The offense leaned heavily on rookie tight end Brock Bowers, who caught 10 passes for 93 yards, but without more support, the Raiders could face more struggles ahead.
Keys to the Game
Mahomes hasn’t been his usual high-flying self in recent weeks, but his ability to make plays on the ground has been vital. The Raiders’ secondary, which forced turnovers last week, will need to be sharp in both coverage and tackling, as Mahomes thrives when extending plays. Despite his lower-than-usual passing output, Mahomes remains a constant threat, especially in the red zone, where the Chiefs have been clinical.
Kansas City’s ground game has come alive, with Kareem Hunt leading the way. His 78-yard, two-touchdown performance last week is part of a balanced offensive attack. If the Raiders can’t slow down the Chiefs’ run game, they risk being overrun by Kansas City’s well-rounded offense. Las Vegas will need to tighten up their run defense to avoid a repeat of last week’s struggles.
With Adams gone and O’Connell injured, Bowers has emerged as the Raiders’ top target. After catching 10 passes for 93 yards last week, Bowers will be the key to the Raiders’ passing game. However, Kansas City’s defense has proven adept at creating turnovers, and they will likely focus on limiting Bowers’ production. If they can neutralize him, the Raiders could struggle to move the ball, especially in the red zone.
The Chiefs’ defense thrives on turnovers, and with Minshew throwing three interceptions last week, Kansas City will look to force more mistakes. Mahomes’ eight interceptions this season are a concern, but if he can avoid giving the ball away, Kansas City should control the game. Special teams could also be a factor, as the Raiders have relied heavily on Carlson’s leg for points.
NFL Pick
This game is likely to be decided by how well the Raiders can handle Kansas City’s defense and diverse offensive attack. Kansas City holds a clear edge with their balanced offense and opportunistic defense, while the Raiders are still dealing with the fallout from the Adams trade and O’Connell’s injury.
Minshew will need to protect the football and rely on Bowers to stay competitive, but Kansas City’s defense should force enough mistakes to swing the game in their favor. Look for Mahomes to have a bounce-back performance, potentially leading to a high-scoring affair.
NFL Pick: Over 41.5 (-110) at Bet365
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