The Los Angeles Chargers open their 2025 season on Friday night against the Kansas City Chiefs in a game that will take place in Sao Paulo, Brazil.
For the second year in a row, the NFL is having a game in Brazil as part of its Week 1 festivities and this year, it features a key clash in the AFC West division. The Chiefs beat Jim Harbaugh and the Chargers twice last season, but both were hard-fought games.
Many feel that this is the year that a team other than the Chiefs can win the AFC West and this game could go a long way towards the Chargers being able to do just that. How do those around the NFL media world see this game going?
Chargers vs. Chiefs Week 1 Predictions
Pete Prisco, CBS Sports: Chiefs 30, Chargers 21
"The Chiefs appear to have solved their offensive-line issues while the Chargers suffered a big loss there losing Rashawn Slater for the season. That matters. Patrick Mahomes with time is a bad thing for a defense. And he will have that here as he gets off to a fast start in a season where he will rack up big numbers again. Chiefs take it."
Jeremy Cluff, Arizona Republic: Chiefs 27, Chargers 23
"This game is being played in Brazil, and it could be a good one. The Chargers have lost seven straight games to the Chiefs, an AFC West division rival. Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce will make it eight."
Vinnie Iyer, The Sporting News: Chiefs 23, Chargers 16
"The Chiefs will be ready for the Chargers' being stronger challengers with the defense and running game as the foundation. But Kansas City can counter with its strong overall D in South America and get Patrick Mahomes to make a few more clutch plays late than Justin Herbert."
Bill Bender, The Sporting News: Chiefs 24, Chargers 20
"The Chiefs and Chargers open in Sao Paulo, Brazil. The Chargers have a revamped running game with rookie Omarion Hampton and Najee Harris. Justin Herbert averaged 196 yards with two TDs to Kansas City last season. He'll have to take more risks to beat the Chiefs here. In a game with a lot of field goals, Patrick Mahomes makes the plays down the stretch to secure a one-score victory."
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