2024 NFL Kickoff Game: Top Performers from Kansas City Chiefs against Baltimore Ravens

Whenever the Baltimore Ravens and Kansas City Chiefs clash, excitement is guaranteed, and Thursday night's 2024 NFL Kickoff Game was no exception. The Chiefs pulled off another close win, 27-20, continuing their streak of dominance with five victories in their last six matchups against the Ravens. The game’s dramatic finish—when Ravens tight end Isaiah Likely failed to secure a touchdown on the final play had everyone on edge. But let’s not overlook the missed opportunities earlier, when Lamar Jackson failed to connect with open receivers on crucial plays.

With the Ravens coming off a stellar season and Lamar Jackson earning his second MVP award, this game was a chance to see how they measure up. Instead, it highlighted a frustrating trend of missed chances against the Chiefs. In this edition of The First Read, we’ll break down the top winners from this thrilling opener. Here’s what you need to know.

Standout performers who shined against the Ravens

Chiefs Wide Receiver Rashee Rice

If there’s an award for Kansas City's Offensive Player of the Game, Rashee Rice is a top contender. The second-year wideout showcased impressive physicality and confidence, building on his strong performance in training camp. After taking half a season to sync up with Patrick Mahomes, a full offseason together has clearly paid off. Rice dominated with seven receptions and 103 yards, excelling on slants and deep crossing routes. Despite speculation about a potential suspension due to an offseason car crash, Rice remains a significant threat to opposing defenses.

Chiefs Wide Receiver Xavier Worthy

The Chiefs' excitement over Xavier Worthy, their first-round draft pick, was justified in his debut. Although he touched the ball only three times against the Ravens, two of those plays resulted in touchdowns—a 21-yard run and a 35-yard catch. His speed and playmaking ability are exactly what head coach Andy Reid hoped to add to the offense. While Worthy will face some rookie growing pains, his knack for making explosive plays is undeniable.

Chiefs Defensive Coordinator Steve Spagnuolo

Once again, Steve Spagnuolo demonstrated his defensive genius, baffling Lamar Jackson and Ravens offensive coordinator Todd Monken. Just as he did in last year’s AFC Championship Game, Spagnuolo's tactics proved highly effective on Thursday night. Despite the Ravens amassing impressive stats—452 total yards and 185 rushing yards—Jackson appeared bewildered for much of the game, and Derrick Henry was notably absent from the Ravens' strategy in the second half. The Ravens' numerous struggles on second- and third-and-long plays highlighted Spagnuolo's strategic brilliance. His ability to get inside Jackson’s head remains evident, and this game underscored his defensive prowess.

Chiefs Defensive Tackle Chris Jones

It’s remarkable how much impact an All-Pro like Chris Jones can have with just three tackles and a sack. Throughout the first half, he seemed to dominate the Ravens’ offensive line, showing off his extraordinary blend of size and speed. Jones not only forced a fumble from Lamar Jackson—recovered by Chiefs defensive end Felix Anudike-Uzomah—but also consistently disrupted Jackson’s dropbacks and played a crucial role in containing Derrick Henry. A year ago, Jones was holding out for a new contract; now, with his hefty extension secured, this game was his chance to show why he’s worth every penny.

Ravens Tight End Isaiah Likely

Even in a tough loss, Isaiah Likely's performance stood out. He led the game with nine catches for 111 yards and a touchdown, showcasing his athleticism with a 49-yard catch-and-run in the fourth quarter. Despite a quiet first half where the Ravens seemed hesitant to utilize him, Likely was a key factor in the second half, frequently targeted on plays to the perimeter. While the Ravens prioritize getting the ball to Derrick Henry and Zay Flowers, Likely made a compelling argument for being their reliable third option.


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