The Kansas City Chiefs are set to take on the Jacksonville Jaguars tonight in a preseason game that could make or break some players’ chances of earning a roster spot this year.

Starters are only expected to play for a quarter or less, but each team is loaded with talent and should have no problem putting on a show with its second, third, and fourth-string units.

Though final outcome of this game won’t have any effect on the all-important AFC standings in January, both the Chiefs and Jaguars are expected to be among the conference’s top teams this season, and may soon meet again for an elimination matchup in the playoffs.

Preseason Predictions

Check out our predictions for Kansas City’s matchup against Jacksonville below:

Chiefs 24, Jaguars 17

The preseason provides a great opportunity for many players unsure of their standing on the roster to make an impact and impress coaches. Rookies get their first taste of the NFL, and veterans shake off the rust from a long offseason with the Chiefs targeting the unprecedented three-peat.

The offense will see some of Patrick Mahomes, but the focus will be on the depth at wide receiver, considering all the speculation regarding Rashee Rice’s status. The play of Xavier Worthy will be watched critically in his first NFL game, along with veterans with much to prove, like Kadarius Toney and Skyy Moore. The offensive line will be watched closely, especially with the competition at left tackle and potential options at left guard without Joe Thuney.

On defense, the focus will be on the young players in the secondary trying to fill the void left by L’Jarius Sneed at cornerback. Steve Spagnuolo has demanded a player step up during training camp, and the preseason opener against the Jaguars would be an ideal statement game for a player.

The preseason opener results don’t matter on the scoreboard, but it should be a competitive game with the reserves playing significant time.

Chiefs 32, Jaguars 17

Though this game is ultimately insignificant, it will be a good opportunity for players near the bottom of Kansas City’s depth chart to prove they deserve a chance to compete for a Super Bowl title this season. Expect Xavier Worthy to flas the elite speed that got him selected in the first round of the 2024 NFL draft, and for the Chiefs’ other up-and-comers to play as if their careers depend on the outcome of this preseason tilt.

Chiefs 23, Jaguars 12

The Chiefs are set to begin their preseason schedule against a worthy opponent in the Jaguars but Kansas City’s exceptional depth should prove to make the difference in the final score. Though Jacksonville will have the starting talent to compete with the Chiefs during the regular season and playoffs, Kansas City’s roster is chock-full of underrated prospects who are hungry for a chance to compete for a Super Bowl ring.

Chiefs 27, Jaguars 26

This game will be more competitive than some fans might expect, and with effectively nothing at stake in the preseason, both teams should look to air the ball out if given the chance. Patrick Mahomes and Trevor Lawrence are only likely to see limited action but could provide some highlight reel plays early in the game.

How to Watch

Check out how to watch the Chiefs’ matchup against the Jaguars here.

What to Expect

Here are three things to keep an eye on during the game:

1. Xavier Worthy's debut: The first-round draft pick will be looking to make an early impression in his first NFL game. His speed and athleticism could be a game-changer for the Chiefs.

2. The battle for the starting left tackle spot: The Chiefs are still searching for a reliable starting left tackle. This game will be a chance for the contenders to showcase their skills.

3. The performance of the young defensive backs: With L'Jarius Sneed out, the Chiefs' young defensive backs have an opportunity to step up and prove their worth. The Jaguars' offense could provide a challenging test.

This game is a great opportunity for fans to get a glimpse of the future of both teams. The Chiefs and Jaguars are both expected to be contenders in the AFC, and this game could be a preview of things to come.