Chiefs could be the pick for Patriots’ banner night (again)

The New England Patriots are once again Super Bowl champions after defeating the Los Angeles Rams, 13-3, on Sunday evening. The Patriots earned their Super Bowl trip by beating the Kansas City Chiefs, 37-31, in the AFC title game at Arrowhead Stadium.

As the Patriots and their fans prepare for another parade, the rest of the league’s fans already have their eyes on next season.

That has never been more apparent than in NFL.com writer Kevin Patra’s latest article, which speculates about which team the Patriots might face in their home opener. The Chiefs, being one of eight teams that will visit New England in the regular season, are an obvious choice.

PATRA: The NFL loves playoff rematches in the opener, and this one would bring everything to the table. The last two Chiefs-Pats games were marvelous showcases, each coming down to the wire. K.C. boasts regular season MVP Patrick Mahomes to pit against Tom Brady. Bill Belichick versus Andy Reid. The Pats’ Super Bowl-winning D against Tyreek Hill and Travis Kelce. Dee Ford staying onside. The stories go on and on. Perhaps the NFL would rather save this tilt for later in the season, but if the league wants to kick off the 2019 campaign with a bang, it cannot go wrong with this matchup.

Patra also suggests the Pittsburgh Steelers and Cleveland Browns as top choices.

The Chiefs visited the Patriots on opening (banner) night two seasons ago, when former running back Kareem Hunt exploded for 246 yards from scrimmage and three total touchdowns in Kansas City’s 42-27 win. The Patriots won both matchups against the Chiefs this past season.

It is worth noting that although the Chiefs could be the Patriots’ first opponent, it may not be 2019’s opening night game.

If the NFL chooses Packers at Bears for Thursday night, the Patriots’ first game would take place on Sunday night.