Kansas City, Missouri – The NFL kicked off its 2024 season with a dramatic matchup on Thursday night, featuring the last two league MVPs, Patrick Mahomes of the Kansas City Chiefs and Lamar Jackson of the Baltimore Ravens. In a game that marked the Chiefs’ Super Bowl banner-raising, the back-to-back champions started their journey for a third consecutive title with a 27-20 victory.
Mahomes threw for 291 passing yards, completing 20 of 28 passes, with one touchdown and one interception. Jackson, in a strong performance, recorded 273 passing yards, a passing touchdown, and 122 rushing yards on 16 carries. Rookie receiver Xavier Worthy made a splash in his debut, scoring a rushing touchdown on a 21-yard reverse and a receiving touchdown on a 35-yard catch, becoming the third player since the 1970 merger to achieve this feat.
The Ravens started strong with a touchdown on their opening drive, courtesy of newly acquired running back Derrick Henry, who powered in from 5 yards out. Henry, however, finished the game with 46 rushing yards on 13 carries. The Ravens faced challenges, including seven penalties totaling 64 yards and missed opportunities that kept them just out of reach.
As the game unfolded, Jackson had a chance to tie it late in the fourth quarter. Starting from his own 13-yard line, he successfully moved his team down to the Chiefs’ 10-yard line after a 38-yard pass to Rashod Bateman. With under a minute remaining and no timeouts, his last pass into the end zone intended for Zay Flowers fell incomplete, capping off a frustrating end for Baltimore, despite their efforts.
The game featured key plays that showcased both Mahomes’ and Jackson’s unique skills. With so much new talent, including Worthy and Henry, fans saw glimpses of exciting things to come this season. The Chiefs improved to 1-0 and will face the Cincinnati Bengals in their next match, while the Ravens will look to bounce back against the Raiders.
This opener was not just a regular game; it was a display of powerful offenses, quick adjustments, and the thrilling atmosphere of a new season. Both teams will now reflect on the close score and their potential for the upcoming weeks.
