There is a longstanding NFL tradition where the defending Super Bowl champion plays in the first game of the season.
It was recently announced that the Kansas City Chiefs will take on the Detroit Lions to begin the season, a surprising move.
#NFLKickoff is SET! 🗓
It's the Detroit Lions vs. the Kansas City Chiefs to open the season. 🏈 pic.twitter.com/qmX9bQsShZ
— Sunday Night Football on NBC (@SNFonNBC) May 11, 2023
While the Lions ended the 2022 campaign with an impressive 9-8 record, they still missed the playoffs.
Many were likely expecting the Chiefs to have a rematch with the Philadelphia Eagles, or perhaps, a meeting with an AFC rival.
This announcement likely signals the NFL’s faith in the Lions to have an improved 2023 season, especially given their amount of offensive talent.
The Lions were the fifth-highest-scoring offense during the 2022 season but were often let down by poor defensive play.
As the team has significantly improved that unit throughout the offseason, many believe the Lions have a real chance to win the NFC North.
They have not only been awarded a Week 1 primetime game, but it’s against the defending Super Bowl champs.
This could prove to be a great test for Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs, ensuring their offense is where they want it to be.
While the Chiefs have a serviceable defense, they weren’t necessarily regarded as one of the league’s best last season.
Assuming the Lions continue their high-octane approach on offense, this could be a high-scoring, high-powered season opener.
The NFL has experienced increasing amounts of parity over the past few years.
Even a team like the Lions can turn things around, evidenced by this recent nod from the league.
NEXT: The Packers Will Get A Surprising Amount Of Primetime Games
