The 2024 NFL season is set to kick off with a blockbuster AFC clash between the reigning Super Bowl champions, the Kansas City Chiefs, and the Baltimore Ravens. The highly anticipated rematch of last season’s AFC Championship Game, which ended in a Kansas City victory, will take place at Arrowhead Stadium this Thursday night.
At the center of attention is Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson, who is seeking redemption and a fresh start to the season. While the Chiefs have had the upper hand in past matchups, Jackson is determined to turn the tide.
In the lead-up to the game, Jackson expressed his mindset, hinting that every game holds personal significance for him.
“Any game I play in, I feel like it’s a revenge game,” Jackson shared via the Ravens’ official website. “I’m not just going to look at this game like a revenge game. Anybody we play, no matter if we’ve beaten them or lost to them in previous years, I just want to win.”
While Jackson downplays the narrative of this being a revenge game, his 1-4 career record against Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes suggests that Thursday’s contest might hold a deeper meaning. The Ravens have struggled in past encounters with the Chiefs, but Jackson is clear on what needs to happen: winning.
Jackson Focused on the Bigger Picture
Though Jackson is eager to defeat Kansas City, he’s focused on more than just one game. His ultimate goal is postseason success, but he knows that each regular-season victory is crucial for reaching that stage.
“We have to win regular-season games [in order] to get to January,” Jackson emphasized. “We can’t just go into the season and go 5-12, because then we’re not going to be in the playoffs. Playoffs are on our mind, but at the same time, we have to win this game that’s ahead of us.”
This mindset reflects Jackson’s maturity as a leader, knowing that each game sets the tone for the Ravens’ season-long journey. For the Ravens to challenge the Chiefs’ dominance, they’ll need a strong start—both from Jackson and their defense.
The Stakes Are High for Both Teams
For Kansas City, the 2024 season represents their chance to further cement their dynasty under Mahomes and head coach Andy Reid. Coming off a Super Bowl victory, the Chiefs are looking to start strong and maintain their dominance in the AFC. However, Baltimore won’t make it easy, and Jackson’s Ravens are motivated to avenge last season’s defeat.
The game kicks off at 8:20 p.m. ET on NBC, and all eyes will be on Arrowhead Stadium. With both teams expected to be major contenders this season, this opening game could set the tone for their campaigns.
As the NFL season begins, fans are eagerly anticipating whether Lamar Jackson’s hunger for victory can overcome Mahomes and the Chiefs’ powerhouse offense. For Jackson, this isn’t just about revenge—it’s about winning consistently and propelling his team toward January.
