The NFL has slowly released the schedule for the upcoming season, with the full announcement coming tonight.
As tradition has laid out, the Super Bowl champs, the Kansas City Chiefs, will play the first game of the season.
Their opponent, as was announced by the Sunday Night Football Twitter page, is the Detroit Lions.
#NFLKickoff is SET! 🗓
It’s the Detroit Lions vs. the Kansas City Chiefs to open the season. 🏈 pic.twitter.com/qmX9bQsShZ
— Sunday Night Football on NBC (@SNFonNBC) May 11, 2023
The Lions finished the 2022 campaign strong, with a 9-8 record.
Despite their late-season success, several fans around the league were unhappy to see them in this season-opener.
Really that’s what they came up with
— jgrover1533 (@jgrover1533) May 11, 2023
THE LIONS GET THE OPENER????
— ☘️⚡️ (@MikeyQuinceEra) May 11, 2023
Here that?
That’s the nfl dropping the ball on opening night— Terry Terrific (@MrTerryBallard) May 11, 2023
It appears that many fans would have much rather seen another AFC opponent, or perhaps, a rematch with the Philadelphia Eagles.
The Chiefs run a high-octane style of offense, something that many defenses aren’t necessarily equipped to handle.
Last season, while the Lions had a fantastic offense, but their defensive firepower left something to be desired.
They allowed 25.7 points per game in 2022, tied for the third-highest amount in the league.
With any luck, their offseason additions will pay off, resulting in a better defense, and a better season opener as a result.
Despite initial criticism from fans to choose the Lions as the Chiefs’ opponent, others were elated with this choice.
I don’t understand why people are surprised or unhappy with the lions. Last year they had a top offense which makes for fun games which is exactly what you want to open the season. Added a ton to their defense so it’s a great chance to see how the lions really look
— Luke Peterson (@LukePetee12) May 11, 2023
What a way to open the new season pic.twitter.com/xcwE6LR3WF
— (@BearsGrl80) May 11, 2023
Good for the Lions! This will be fun.
— Steven Haglund (@StevenIHaglund) May 11, 2023
The cultural shift of the Lions organization has been something to behold.
Not only have Lions fans rejoiced in this change, but the public opinion of the team has slowly changed as well.
The NFC North is up for grabs, and the Lions will get a great, nationally televised chance to showcase their on-field talents.
NEXT:
Andy Reid Comments On Expectations For Rookies
