The NFL season is back, bringing its usual thrill and excitement! In the season opener on Thursday night, September 7, the reigning champions faced off against the Detroit Lions. However, contrary to expectations, the underdogs emerged victorious, spoiling the celebratory mood for the Chiefdom with a final score of 21-20.

While the Kansas City Chiefs typically secures easy wins in NFL seasons, this game took an interesting turn as the Lions, who seemed charged up, defeated the reigning Super Bowl champions. Here are five key takeaways from the season opener at Arrowhead that you won’t want to miss.

Top 5 moments from Week 1 Game 1!

The Kansas City Chiefs, reigning champions of Super Bowl LVII, had the honor of opening the regular season at home in the NFL Kickoff Game. Regrettably, they were unable to capitalize on this opportunity. Nevertheless, five standout moments demand attention.

1. Patrick Mahomes was the only hero for the Chiefs:

Patrick Mahomes single-handedly transformed the game for the Chiefs, putting on a one-man highlight reel. By halftime, he had completed 12 of 17 passes for 147 yards and thrown 2 touchdowns. As the teams headed into the locker room, the Chiefs held a 14-7 lead. However, despite Mahomes’ brilliance, things took a downturn for the team due to a lack of practice and coordination.

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2. Kadarius Toney flops:

The Chiefs’ wide receiver, Kadarius Toney, inadvertently contributed to the Lions’ touchdowns. At the start of the second half, the Chiefs held a 14-7 lead. However, things took a turn when Patrick Mahomes delivered a perfectly placed pass to Toney, only for the ball to slip through his hands and into the waiting arms of Brian Branch. The Lions defender raced down the field and scored a touchdown, leveling the score. To make matters worse, Toney had a few more dropped catches during the game, ultimately leading to the Chiefs’ disappointing loss on their home turf.

3. Jawaan Taylor stood guarding no one:

Chiefs right tackle Jawaan Taylor seemed to be committing pre-snap fouls that went uncalled, as he repeatedly got away with early jumps and positioned himself too deeply on the line of scrimmage.

The 25-year-old was often positioned too far back, moving his right leg when it should have remained still, and initiating his pass-block set before the snap.

Read more: Even After Doing Everything Right, Patrick Mahomes Throws a Stain on His Resume During NFL Kickoff 2023

Moreover, it took a full 58 minutes for the officials to finally penalize Taylor.

4. Toney dropped the ball to earn the Boos:

The Chiefs’ wide receiver, Kadarius Toney, delivered a subpar performance that contributed to the team’s devastating loss. Toney’s numerous dropped catches, including the critical final one, infuriated not only Chiefs fans but also the entire NFL community. Fans expressed their frustration, with many calling for his removal from the team.

5. Mahomes without his two trusted men:

Patrick Mahomes’ opening weekend record was marred by the absence of two of his reliable teammates on the field. His close friend Travis Kelce was sidelined due to a knee injury, while experienced defensive tackle Chris Jones was absent due to a contract situation.

Adding to the frustration, Jones was present at Arrowhead Stadium to witness the game, rubbing salt into the Chiefs’ wound.

Mahomes is the most valuable asset for the Chiefs, much like Tom Brady has been for his teams. Mahomes fought valiantly on his own in the game, but as even a king needs his warriors and a strong army, the absence of two key players ultimately prevented him from securing a victory.

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