The upcoming matchup between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Jacksonville Jaguars Sunday is a rematch of the 2023 AFC Divisional Round. The Jaguars opened their season with an exciting win against their division-rival Indianapolis Colts. Moreover, the Chiefs opened with a disappointing loss to the Detroit Lions.
Showdown and Injury Concerns
This will be an exciting matchup between star quarterbacks Patrick Mahomes and Trevor Lawrence. In the Divisional Round last year, the Chiefs defeated the Jags 27-20 behind 195 yards and two touchdowns in the air from Mahomes.
Always a treat when two of the best meet. pic.twitter.com/eOshgL9ybo
— Kansas City Chiefs (@Chiefs) September 13, 2023
The two-time MVP relies on tight end Travis Kelce as the main recipient of his touchdowns. Kelce sat out the first game of the season after hyperextending his knee in practice and suffered a bone bruise. However, Kelce is predicted to be back this week but it is unknown at this time. On the positive side for the Chiefs, teammate and defensive tackle Chris Jones will be back as well after ending his holdout Tuesday, signing a one-year extension.
For the Jaguars, they are struggling with injuries on the offensive life. Right guard Brandon Scherff and center Luke Fortner are dealing with ankle injuries and were elevated to limited participation after not practicing on Wednesday.
Thursday Injury Report pic.twitter.com/bDCR4HufsP
— Jacksonville Jaguars (@Jaguars) September 14, 2023
Both have started each of the Jaguars’ last 20 games together. While the hope remains that the two return, the Jaguars are prepared for alternative plans.
Quest for Redemption and Great Play
The Jaguars are seeking revenge from the playoff loss last year. They had a solid opening 31-21 win against the Colts where they dominated the fourth quarter. Lawrence played well in Week 1, passing for 241 yards and two touchdowns. It was clear that him and wide receiver Calvin Ridley share incredible chemistry as they connected eight times for 101 yards.
https://twitter.com/Jaguars/status/1701594958707519716
With both teams boasting strong offenses, this game is predicted to be a tight matchup. It would stun fans to see the Chiefs fall to 0-2 early in the season, but the Jags could pull off the upset with home field advantage.
Kickoff is at 1 p.m. in Jacksonville Sunday.