Chiefs are Ready to Steamroll the Raiders in Week 8

The Kansas City Chiefs head into Week 8 looking to continue their dominant season as they face off against the struggling Las Vegas Raiders. While the Chiefs’ offense usually gets most of the attention, it’s the defense that has been making waves recently. The Raiders’ offensive struggles, combined with Kansas City’s stout run defense, make this matchup an interesting one for bettors. Below, we break down the key players and betting strategies from a Kansas City perspective.

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Chiefs’ Defense: The Key to Shutting Down the Raiders

One of the biggest storylines for the Kansas City Chiefs this season has been their defense. The Chiefs rank second in the NFL in rushing yards allowed, giving up only 543 yards on the ground so far, trailing only the Baltimore Ravens. With the Raiders’ offense struggling, particularly at the quarterback position, the Chiefs’ defense is set up to dominate this matchup.

Betting on Raiders’ Rushing Unders

The Raiders’ running backs, led by Zamir White and Alexander Mattison, are facing a nightmare matchup against Kansas City’s defensive front. The Chiefs have consistently stifled opposing run games, making the under on rushing yards for Raiders running backs a solid bet. For example, with Alexander Mattison’s rushing total projected around 40.5 yards, betting the under is a strong play considering Kansas City’s ability to shut down the run.

Key Bet: Under on Raiders Total Rushing Yards

With the Chiefs allowing the second-fewest rushing yards in the NFL, this is a game where betting the under on the Raiders’ rushing yards, or even on individual players like Zamir White or Alexander Mattison, is a smart approach. The Chiefs’ defense should have no problem controlling the line of scrimmage.

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Chiefs’ Offense: Mahomes and Kelce in the Spotlight

While Kansas City’s defense has been stellar, the offense is always the main attraction. Patrick Mahomes continues to lead one of the most potent passing attacks in the league, and his connection with tight end Travis Kelce is as strong as ever. Against a Raiders defense that has struggled in pass coverage, particularly against top-tier quarterbacks, Mahomes and Kelce should be in for a big day.

Betting on Mahomes and Kelce Props

Mahomes is always a good bet for player props, especially in games where the Chiefs are favored. With the Raiders’ defense struggling, betting on Mahomes to exceed his passing yards or touchdowns total is a good strategy. Likewise, Travis Kelce is a prime candidate for an anytime touchdown bet, as he remains Mahomes’ favorite red-zone target.

Key Bet: Patrick Mahomes Over Passing Yards

With the Raiders likely playing from behind, the Chiefs could open up the passing game and exploit mismatches in the Raiders’ secondary. Betting on Mahomes to go over his passing yard total is a great option for this matchup.

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Kansas City’s Rushing Attack: A Complementary Force

Although the Chiefs are known for their passing attack, their running game, led by Kareem Hunt, has been a solid complement. Hunt has proven he can handle the workload when needed, and in a game where the Chiefs could take an early lead, he may see plenty of opportunities to run the ball and control the clock.

Betting on Kareem Hunt to Find the End Zone

Given the Chiefs’ expected game script, betting on Kareem Hunt to score an anytime touchdown could be a smart play. With Kansas City likely to dominate time of possession, Hunt should get plenty of chances to punch it in near the goal line.

Key Bet: Kareem Hunt Anytime Touchdown

Hunt is a reliable option in the Chiefs’ red-zone offense, and with the likelihood of Kansas City controlling this game, he could be in line for a touchdown. This is a solid bet for those looking to capitalize on the Chiefs’ balanced offensive attack.

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Chiefs’ Motivation: Revenge on Their Minds

The Chiefs have a long memory, and they likely remember the shock loss to the Raiders last season. That loss came with Kansas City being unprepared, but this time around, expect Andy Reid and the Chiefs to come out focused and ready to dominate. The Raiders will struggle to keep pace offensively, especially with Kansas City’s defense playing at such a high level.

Betting on Chiefs to Cover the Spread

The Chiefs come into this game as heavy favorites, and given their dominance on both sides of the ball, betting on them to cover the spread is an appealing option. With Las Vegas struggling to generate offense and Kansas City excelling on defense, this could be a one-sided affair.

Key Bet: Chiefs to Cover the Spread

Given the Raiders’ offensive struggles and the Chiefs’ ability to control the game, betting on Kansas City to cover the spread is a smart play. They have the firepower and defense to dominate from start to finish.

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Final Thoughts

The Kansas City Chiefs are set up for success in Week 8 against the Las Vegas Raiders. With a strong defense that can shut down the Raiders’ rushing attack and an offense led by Patrick Mahomes, this game presents several betting opportunities. Focus on the under for Raiders rushing props, Mahomes and Kelce in the passing game, and the Chiefs to cover the spread. Kansas City is in a prime position to continue their winning ways and extend their dominance in the AFC West.

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