The Kansas City Chiefs kick off the 2026 NFL season against the Denver Broncos on Monday Night Football, aiming to bounce back from a disappointing 6-11 record last year. This matchup concludes the Week 1 schedule at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Missouri, with kickoff set for 8:15 p.m. ET.

The Chiefs, who dominated the AFC West for nine consecutive seasons and reached the Super Bowl five times in six years, now face the defending champions, the Denver Broncos, who finished last season with an impressive 14-3 record. The Broncos earned their first division title since 2015 and advanced to the AFC Championship Game, where they narrowly lost to the New England Patriots 10-7.

In terms of betting, the latest odds favor the Chiefs as 2.5-point favorites, with an over/under set at 43.5 points. The betting model from SportsLine, which has shown significant returns for players, has simulated the game 10,000 times, reporting a positive run on top-rated picks since 2024.

Key Betting Lines:

• Spread: Chiefs -2.5
• Over/Under: 43.5 points
• Money Line: Chiefs -134, Broncos +113

Predictions:

• The model forecasts a combined score of 40 points, indicating a likely Under on the total points.
• Bo Nix, the Broncos' quarterback, is projected to throw for under 200 yards with one touchdown.
• Patrick Mahomes of the Chiefs is also expected to have a modest performance, with predictions of 180 yards and one score.

For those looking to place bets, the model suggests one side of the spread offers better value. Check SportsLine for detailed picks and insights.