After falling at Buffalo to stop their undefeated season, the Kansas City Chiefs take the road to play the — rejuvenated? — Carolina Panthers. Facing one of the league’s rebuilding teams, the Chiefs hope to get Patrick Mahomes back on track. Coming off their bye week and riding a two-game winning streak, the Panthers are showing more fight in recent weeks. The Chiefs are double-digit favorites in this matchup.
How to watch Chiefs at Panthers
Protecting Mahomes is a must for Kansas City. Against Buffalo, Mahomes took two sacks and was hit by six different Bills defenders. Although Kansas City remains in the chase for the AFC’s top seed, Mahomes is tied for the league lead in interceptions through inconsistent play during the regular season.
Unfortunately, Isiah Pacheco won’t be returning yet for Sunday’s game. Kansas City is 29th in rushing yards per play this season, struggling to find a suitable replacement since Pacheco’s Week 2 injury. But Carolina’s defense rates near the bottom of the NFL in most statistical categories, giving Kansas City’s offense a chance to reset after some recent physical matchups.
Bryce Young remains the starting QB for the Panthers after two straight victories. Young still faces turnover questions but deserves credit for improved poise after leading two game-winning scoring drives.
Fresh off a new contract, running back Chuba Hubbard will get plenty of work. Tenth in rushing yards per play, the Panthers backfield gets a talent infusion with the season debut of injured second-round pick Jonathan Brooks.
Kansas City sports a stellar third-ranked run defense, which could force Young into more throws than anticipated.
Kansas City Chiefs vs. Carolina Panthers odds
Expert picks for Chiefs vs. Panthers
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(Photo of Patrick Mahomes: Lauren Leigh Bacho / Getty Images)
