The Kansas City Chiefs won Super Bowl 57 over the Philadelphia Eagles 38-35 in February. On Thursday night, they will officially begin their defense of that title as they will host the Detroit Lions in the season opener.

The Lions are a team many people expect to make a leap in the standings in 2023. After finishing the 2022 season 9-8, a playoff appearance could be in their future. Facing off against the defending Super Bowl champion Chiefs will certainly be a good measuring stick game to see how far along Dan Campbell’s group has come.

Going into Arrowhead is certainly a tall task as one of the toughest places to play in the league. But, the Chiefs could be without a few key contributors as tight end Travis Kelce injured his knee at practice Tuesday. Star defensive tackle Chris Jones remains away from the team as he awaits a new contract extension.

How will that impact the outcome of the game? What can we expect to see on Thursday Night Football when the teams face off? Here are five bold predictions for the Lions vs. Chiefs in Week 1 NFL action.

5. Jahmyr Gibbs Has a Monster Debut

The Lions shocked a lot of people when they selected Alabama running back Jahmyr Gibbs with the No. 12 overall pick. Had they not traded back from No. 6, there have been reports they would have picked him there.

All eyes will be on Gibbs to see how he responds to his first NFL action. We’re predicting that he will respond just fine, having a huge game against a Chiefs defense that is missing a lot in the trenches.

Without Jones and Charles Omenihu, the Lions’ offensive line is going to find some success. Gibbs is going to showcase his skill, rushing for at least 70 yards. But, it will be as a receiver where he makes the biggest impact as he will record at least 80 receiving yards as well.

A 150+ total yard debut with at least one touchdown is quite a debut for the Lions rookie on Thursday Night Football.