Kansas City Chiefs vs. Atlanta Falcons – This Sunday night, the unbeaten Kansas City Chiefs (2-0) visit the Atlanta Falcons (1-1) in what promises to be an exhilarating NFL Week 3 showdown. The game is set to unfold at 8:20 PM ET at Mercedes-Benz Stadium and will be broadcast nationally on NBC. With both teams coming off narrow victories, the stakes are high as they look to cement their standings early in the season. This matchup offers intriguing dynamics and valuable insights for enthusiasts and experts making football betting picks.
Kansas City Chiefs vs. Atlanta Falcons
Date & Time: Sunday, September 22, 2024 at 8:20 PM ET
Location: Mercedes-Benz Stadium
TV: NBC
Kansas City Chiefs vs. Atlanta Falcons Betting Odds
Team | Moneyline | Spread | Total |
Chiefs | -180 | -3.5 (-120) | 50 over (-120) |
Falcons | +152 | +3.5 (-120) | 50 under (-120) |
Kansas City Chiefs Analysis
The Chiefs have come out of the blocks with a powerful offense led by Patrick Mahomes. Over the first two weeks, the quarterback passed for 442 yards with 3 touchdown games and 3 interception games to show how he brings an elite style, which is also memorable because of his high interception count. Among the team, Rashee Rice was quite productive with 178 receiving yards and a touchdown. However, Kansas City’s running game has been unproductive even with the success in passing the ball. Only 27 yards on nine carries for running back Carson Steele suggests that this will be a point for the Chiefs against a strong Atlanta defensive line.
On the defensive side of the ball, the Chiefs have been underwhelming, and more specifically, their secondary is exposed and vulnerable to Atlanta’s passing. Even though they have won, the Chiefs’ defense has given up a lot of yards in crucial situations. To be able to beat the Falcons, it would be imperative to brush up on the coverage on the pass, and the rush defense as well since the Falcons are a great team when it comes to rushing the ball.
Atlanta Falcons Analysis
On the offensive front, things are looking bright for the Falcons under the guidance of quarterback Kirk Cousins, who has had a productive outing of throwing 396 yards and three touchdowns. Atlanta’s notable player has been running back Bijan Robinson, who has piled up 165 yards on running plays so far. Such a multi-dimensional approach can be very dangerous for the Pittsburgh Steelers’ defense. Moore has not seen a lot of action, but with his opportunities, he has made some important catches that can help open up the skeptical eye of defense off the Chiefs.
However, Atlanta’s defensive record has been less staunch. The team has been particularly terrible doing this within what seems to be a 5-13 streak against the spread whether winning or losing the last 18 games. In case Atlanta wants to take down the explosive Chiefs, their defense needs to cut off Mahomes’ passes to his receivers and get turnovers, something they have been able to do but have struggled in being consistent at it.
Kansas City Chiefs vs. Atlanta Falcons Against the Spread
Kansas City has been a reliable bet lately, going 7-1 against the spread in their last eight games and 8-0 straight up in the same stretch. However, their past encounters with Atlanta show a less dominant spread record of 2-4 in the last six matchups.
On the flip side, Atlanta’s overall ATS performance has been lackluster, and their home record is notably weak. Yet, they have managed to cover the spread in four of the last five contests against Kansas City.
Kansas City Chiefs vs. Atlanta Falcons Free Pick
Based on odds, trends, team stats, and key players, here are the picks:
Moneyline: Kansas City Chiefs (-180). Despite the high juice, the Chiefs’ overall consistency and Mahomes’ playmaking prowess make them the safer bet.
Spread: Atlanta Falcons +3.5 (-120). Given the Chiefs’ recent ATS struggles against Atlanta and the Falcons’ home advantage, taking the points with Atlanta might offer value.
Total: Over 50 (-120). Considering both teams have shown strong offensive capabilities and some defensive lapses, expecting a high-scoring affair seems reasonable.
Predicted Score: Kansas City Chiefs 31, Atlanta Falcons 27
In conclusion, while the Chiefs are favored, the Falcons’ potential to exploit Kansas City’s defensive weaknesses makes them an intriguing underdog bet. However, Kansas City’s offensive firepower should ultimately secure them the win in a close contest. When placing bets, it’s always wise to check out the top betting sites in Canada for the best odds and insights.