Thursday Night Lights: Chiefs vs. Lions – Kelce Officially Ruled Out

It’s finally Thursday Night Lights again as the NFL is back, and it’s kicking off with a bang. The Detroit Lions are set to face the reigning Super Bowl champions, the Kansas City Chiefs, in a game that promises fireworks. The spotlight is on Travis Kelce, the Chiefs’ future Hall of Fame tight end, who is questionable for the game due to a hyperextended knee. Will he play? That’s the million-dollar question.

The Lions’ Roar

The Lions are coming into the 2023 season as one of the hottest teams from last year. They narrowly missed the playoffs but are the favorites to win the NFC North at +140. With a revamped roster and a chip on their shoulder, Detroit is looking to make a statement against the Chiefs.

Mahomes’ Magic

Patrick Mahomes is entering his seventh NFL season with one goal in mind: another NFL Championship. Last season, he threw for 300 yards in 10 of 17 games, and he’s expected to continue that trend. His season prop for passing touchdowns is set at 37.5, and for this game, it’s a whopping 298.5 yards.

Prop Bets to Consider Without Kelce

• Jerick McKinnon Anytime TD +160: With Kelce possibly out, Mahomes will lean on McKinnon, especially in the red zone.
• Cameron Sutton OVER 2.5 solo tackles (+130): Kelce’s absence could force Mahomes to throw outside more, where Sutton will be waiting.
• Skyy Moore OVER 45.5 receiving yards (-129): Moore could be the biggest beneficiary if Kelce sits this one out.
• Isiah Pacheco OVER 49.5 rushing yards: With Kelce possibly out, the Chiefs may rely more on their running game.
• Jared Goff OVER 35.5 pass attempts: Expect Goff to air it out to keep up with the Chiefs’ high-scoring offense.

Props That Make Sense Either Way

• Jahmyr Gibbs OVER 3.5 receptions and OVER 29.5 receiving yards: Gibbs is expected to be a significant part of the Lions’ passing game.
• Jared Goff OVER 35.5 pass attempts: Expect Goff to air it out to keep up with the Chiefs’ high-scoring offense.

The Kelce Factor

Be prepared to pivot your bets and lineups based on the official Kelce news. If he plays, consider the “anytime TD” prop as a testament to his indomitable spirit and unmatched skill. A statement that says, “You can’t stop me, not even with a busted ass knee.”

The Final Whistle

This game is more than just the season opener; it’s a statement game for both teams. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a DFS enthusiast, this game has something for everyone. And speaking of DFS, don’t forget to head over to DraftEdge’s NFL Optimizer to build your optimized lineups for DraftKings and FanDuel’s Thursday Showdown. Get in the game, and may the odds be ever in your favor.