The Kansas City Chiefs got off to a strong start in their NFL title defense, aiming to secure a historic third consecutive Super Bowl win. In a thrilling season opener against the Baltimore Ravens, the Chiefs maintained a 27-20 lead as the Ravens made a final push in the last two minutes of the game.
Lamar Jackson, the Ravens’ quarterback, orchestrated an impressive drive, bringing his team to the Chiefs’ 10-yard line with less than 30 seconds left. Despite facing a tense situation, the Ravens had three opportunities to score a game-changing touchdown. Their first two attempts fell incomplete, but on the third try, Isaiah Likely made a dramatic catch at the back of the endzone, initially being awarded a crucial touchdown.
However, the excitement was short-lived as replays revealed that Likely’s foot had touched the endline, leading to the touchdown being overturned. This turn of events sealed the victory for the Kansas City Chiefs, prompting jubilant celebrations from the team and their fans, including notable personalities like Travis Kelce’s girlfriend, Taylor Swift.
This highly anticipated 2024 season opener marked a rematch of last season’s AFC Championship game and notably extended the Chiefs’ dominance over the Ravens, with the Chiefs emerging victorious in five out of their six meetings since the rise of star quarterbacks Patrick Mahomes and Lamar Jackson.
Despite the Ravens boasting the NFL’s best regular-season record twice during this period, they have faced difficulty in reaching the Super Bowl, with the Chiefs emerging as formidable contenders, reaching four of the last five Super Bowls and securing three wins.
The game itself showcased thrilling performances, including a standout play by new Ravens signing Derrick Henry, a two-time NFL rushing leader, who powered through to give the Ravens an early lead. The Chiefs countered with a dynamic display, with rookie receiver Xavier Worthy leveling the score with a remarkable rushing touchdown. With the help of Harrison Butker’s field goals, the Chiefs secured a narrow 13-10 lead by halftime, before extending their advantage with an Isiah Pacheco touchdown.
The Ravens fought back as Likely displayed his skills by securing a 49-yard touchdown early in the fourth quarter, setting the stage for a tense finale. Worthy made a decisive impact by claiming his second touchdown, further securing the Chiefs’ lead. Despite a late surge by the Ravens, including a field goal from Justin Tucker, the overturned touchdown ultimately sealed the Chiefs’ victory.
As the NFL’s opening weekend continued, it was marked by a historic moment as the league hosted its first regular-season game in Brazil. The Philadelphia Eagles faced the Green Bay Packers in Sao Paulo, further spreading the excitement of American football to new and diverse audiences.

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