Baltimore Ravens (1-2 Preseason) vs. Kansas City Chiefs (0-3 Preseason)
As the NFL prepares for its first week of action thrillingly, the Baltimore Ravens are playing the Kansas City Chiefs on Thursday at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Both teams played in the preseason; the Ravens finished at 1-2, while the Chiefs found themselves in the last position at 0-3. The anticipation to commence the regular season in style is from both sides. The event will be show cased live on NBC, and it goes without saying that it will be a highlight for football lovers. This matchup is a test of early-season form and significant for bettors looking for NFL free picks.
The various units of the Baltimore Ravens’ offense, especially the rushing and receiving ones, found hopes during the preseason. While running back Chris Collier lacks speed, he is steady; he has 82 rushing yards in three games, which provides a baseline running game for Baltimore. As far as receiving records are concerned, Tylan Wallace takes the spotlight as he averages an impressive 26.3 yards per catch, grabbing 4 passes for 105 yards and one touchdown. This ability to use limited chances and make them profitable would be key against the Chiefs’ defense.
On the opposite end, the Chiefs have their own arsenal. Carson Steele is that rushing towel that seems to just be getting the Chiefs closer to making more rushing plays, having finished the preseason with 87 rushing yards on 11 attempts averaging 7.9 yards a carry with 2 rushing touchdowns. In terms of air plays, Cornell Powell has become a dependable wide receiver after amassing 104 yards on 6 catches, averaging 17.3 yards per catch.
Baltimore Ravens vs. Kansas City Chiefs Game Info
| When: | Thursday, September 5, 2024 at 8:20 PM ET |
| Where: | GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium |
| TV: | NBC |
| Stream: | NFL Game Pass |
Josh Johnson QB vs. Chris Oladokun QB
The Ravens quarterback, Josh Johnson, wrapped up the preseason on a high note: 66.7% passing completion rate, 253 passing yards, and two touchdown passes with zero interceptions. Protection and field command will fall into the hands of Johnson with great efficiency. Josh Johnson is under pressure, but if he focuses and makes the passes, the Ravens will have a strong shot.
On the other sideline, for the chiefs, Chris Oladokun also had a 66.7% completion rate, but less yards and a couple more corruptions to his name. Taking into account how ugly he has been in the preseason, there will be a need for him to upgrade his 74.1 passer rating If the chiefs want to make a statement at home and get their first winning of the season.
NFL Odds/Point Spread: Kansas City Chiefs -150, Total Odds: 46.5
The betting odds indicate a slight favor towards the Chiefs with a -2.5 point spread and a -150 moneyline, reflecting confidence in their ability to cover the spread at home. The total set at 46.5 points suggests expectations of a moderately high-scoring game, which aligns with the offensive capabilities of both teams.
Baltimore Ravens Betting Trends
The Ravens have been a reliable bet against the spread (ATS), going 6-3 in their last nine games. However, their recent matchups with the Chiefs haven’t been as favorable, with a 2-5 ATS record in their last seven encounters. Their strong performance in road games, winning the last five straight, adds a layer of intrigue to their underdog status in this matchup.
Kansas City Chiefs Betting Trends
The Chiefs have been impeccable ATS in their recent outings, achieving a perfect 6-0 in their last six games. Their ability to perform under pressure is evident, though they have had mixed results with the total points, with a tendency towards the UNDER in home games.
Baltimore Ravens vs. Kansas City Chiefs 9/5/24 Betting Picks
Considering the comprehensive analysis and the betting trends of both teams, the Chiefs seem poised to make a strong statement at home. Despite their preseason struggles, their consistent ATS performance and the strategic use of their key players give them an edge. However, the Ravens’ strong road game record and potential for big plays cannot be underestimated.
In terms of betting strategies, taking the Chiefs to cover the spread might be the safer bet, while the total going UNDER 46.5 could be wise, given the Chiefs’ tendency and the critical nature of season openers that often start tighter. Additionally, prop bets on players like Tylan Wallace for an anytime touchdown could offer value given his preseason form. In a battle that promises to be closely contested, the Chiefs are likely to utilize their home advantage and recent form to secure a victory in this NFL Week 1 matchup, making them a top pick for those using top bookie software.
