Week 1 of the NFL season concluded with the Kansas City Chiefs defeating the Denver Broncos decisively, 31-10, on Monday Night Football. The game showcased a stellar performance from running back Kenneth Walker III, who rushed for 173 yards, marking a career high. Patrick Mahomes, returning from a serious knee injury, also made his presence felt, although he still has room for improvement.

Key Takeaways:

• Sean Payton's Play-Calling Duties: While it seems premature to question Payton’s decision to hand over offensive play-calling to Davis Webb after just one game, many believe he should reclaim those responsibilities. The Broncos' offense struggled significantly, recording only 176 total yards, the worst under Payton’s tenure.

• Mahomes' Return: Despite the victory, Mahomes' performance was labeled an overreaction to declare him back in elite form. He started slowly, completing only 2 of 12 passes initially, but found his rhythm later, finishing strong. However, his average of 4.9 air yards per attempt suggests he is not yet fully back.

• Kenneth Walker III's Impact: Walker’s debut was exceptional, making a compelling case for being the top free-agent signing. His 191 yards from scrimmage outperformed the entire Broncos offense and introduced a new dynamic to the Chiefs’ attack.

• Broncos Defense Concerns: Although Denver's defense was shaky, missing 28 tackles, it's premature to label them as non-elite. They previously ranked among the best in the league, and a single poor performance may not define their season.

As the season progresses, the Chiefs appear poised to return to dominance, while the Broncos must quickly address their shortcomings to remain competitive.