Former Dallas Cowboys coach Jimmy Johnson, now an analyst for 'FOX NFL Sunday,' provided his insights on the upcoming matchup between the Kansas City Chiefs and Baltimore Ravens, the NFL's opening game for the 2024 season.
The NFL season is finally upon us, and what better way to kick it off than with a rematch of last year's AFC Championship? The Kansas City Chiefs host the Baltimore Ravens on Thursday night, and former Dallas Cowboys coach Jimmy Johnson, now an analyst for 'FOX NFL Sunday,' offered his insights on the matchup during an appearance on 'Fox & Friends.'
The Chiefs are looking to become the first team to win three consecutive Super Bowls since the 2003-04 New England Patriots. They enter the season with Patrick Mahomes at quarterback, who is coming off another MVP campaign. However, they've had a tumultuous offseason, with several players facing legal issues and Mahomes' wife sparking controversy on social media.
NFL Kickoff Preview: Inside the Matchup Between Chiefs, Ravens
The Ravens are looking to bounce back from a disappointing end to last season, when they lost to the Chiefs in the AFC Championship. They've made some key additions this offseason, including Josh Jones on the offensive line, Derrick Henry in the backfield, and Eddie Jackson in the secondary. Lamar Jackson, the reigning MVP, is looking to lead his team back to the Super Bowl.
Both the Chiefs and the Ravens face tough battles in their respective divisions. The Chiefs are in the AFC West, which also includes the Los Angeles Chargers, Denver Broncos, and Las Vegas Raiders. The Ravens are in the AFC North, which also includes the Cincinnati Bengals, Pittsburgh Steelers, and Cleveland Browns.
NFL Kickoff Preview: Inside the Matchup Between Chiefs, Ravens
Johnson believes that the Chiefs are the favorites in the matchup, but he also praised the Ravens for their resilience and toughness. He noted that the Chiefs' offense is one of the best in the NFL, but that the Ravens' defense could pose a challenge.
Both teams boast explosive offenses. The Chiefs have Mahomes, one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in the league. The Ravens have Jackson, who is a threat both as a passer and a runner. Both teams also have talented receivers, with the Chiefs led by Tyreek Hill and Travis Kelce, and the Ravens led by Mark Andrews.
NFL Kickoff Preview: Inside the Matchup Between Chiefs, Ravens
Both teams also have formidable defenses. The Chiefs have one of the best pass rushes in the league, led by Chris Jones. The Ravens have a stout run defense, anchored by Calais Campbell.
Johnson predicted that the Chiefs will win the game, but he also said that the Ravens will be a tough opponent. He noted that the Chiefs have more experience and talent, but that the Ravens have the potential to pull off an upset.
The NFL season is finally here, and the Chiefs vs. Ravens matchup is a fitting way to kick it off. Both teams have high hopes for the season, and a win in the season opener would be a major statement. Johnson's analysis provides valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses of both teams, and it will be interesting to see if his predictions come true.
