KANSAS CITY, Mo. — In his first game with the Chiefs, DeAndre Hopkins recorded two receptions for 29 yards as Kansas City triumphed over the Raiders with a score of 27-20. This victory marks the team’s 13th consecutive win, tying a franchise record.
Despite his limited statistics, Hopkins’ influence on the game was far more significant. Following a brief adjustment period after his trade from the Titans, the three-time All-Pro wide receiver played a crucial role in converting an essential third down early in the matchup. He consistently excelled against man coverage, contributing to a play in the red zone where he was open, which ultimately allowed Travis Kelce to score the touchdown.
Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes praised Hopkins’ performance, noting that on several occasions, he successfully beat defenders in one-on-one situations. Mahomes also highlighted that Hopkins was open on the play leading to Kelce’s touchdown, referring to him as a valuable asset when facing man coverage defenses. He mentioned, “If they’re going to play man coverage against him, he’s going to get open,” and acknowledged the need to provide Hopkins with more opportunities to make plays as he becomes familiar with the offensive system.
With more time to acclimate to head coach Andy Reid’s complex playbook, Hopkins will be better prepared for the team’s next game against the Buccaneers, which marks their first home matchup in nearly a month. Even when he was not the focal point of the passing game, his presence on the field demanded the Raiders’ attention, thereby creating opportunities for fellow players. Kelce enjoyed a standout performance with 10 receptions for 90 yards, while Xavier Worthy and Justin Watson also contributed significantly to the offensive effort.
Mahomes had an impressive outing, throwing for 262 yards and two touchdowns, with only one interception stemming from a tipped ball. Reid remarked on the success of including Hopkins, noting, “He wanted to be in there, which was a positive,” while expressing confidence that Hopkins would see increased involvement in the upcoming game.
The Chiefs’ defense has been effective in neutralizing opponents’ running games throughout the season, and the Raiders fell victim to this strategy, managing only 33 yards on 21 carries, averaging just 1.6 yards per attempt. However, the team has faced challenges in defending against tight ends, with Raiders rookie Brock Bowers leading the way with five receptions for 58 yards.
On the defensive side, linebacker Drue Tranquill made a significant impact, contributing to three of the Chiefs’ tackles for loss and delivering a strong hit on Raiders quarterback Gardner Minshew. Meanwhile, the team is currently searching for a replacement for cornerback Jaylen Watson, who has been sidelined for the season due to a fractured ankle. The challenge intensified with Nazeeh Johnson entering the concussion protocol during the game. Josh Williams received ample playing time but struggled with coverage and received a penalty for a hit out of bounds.
Injury concerns also impacted the team’s performance as Johnson was showing promise before being forced to leave the game. Additionally, tight end Jody Fortson suffered a knee injury while attempting to recover an onside kick, though the Chiefs were able to secure possession regardless.
The Chiefs’ winning streak has now reached 13 games, a remarkable achievement that stretches back to their loss to the Raiders on Christmas Day last season. This marks the longest active streak in the NFL since Kansas City managed a similar run between the 2019 and 2020 seasons.
The Chiefs are set to face Tampa Bay next, seeking to build upon their recent success. Historically, they have won two of the last three matchups against Tampa, although the lone defeat was a significant one. The Buccaneers, led by Tom Brady, outplayed Kansas City in the Super Bowl on February 7, 2021.