Our NFL betting experts offer their picks and best bet predictions for the clash between the Chiefs and Colts scheduled for Sunday in Indianapolis at 1pm ET on CBS.
The Chiefs (2-0) started quickly as usual, while the Colts (0-1-1) have been a big disappointment for the first two weeks.
What will happen to the two of them in this meeting? Here are our best bets for the NFL Sunday showdown.
Chiefs vs. picks and predictions Colts
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Chiefs vs. Choice and analysis Colts
Kansas City quarterback Patrick Mahomes has thrown in 48 touchdowns and three interceptions while leading 13-2 as a starter in September. There is no reason to expect a successful ending this week.
That said, a desperate Colts team can keep it at their home.
Colts +5.5
The Colts spent much of the offseason making sure everyone knew quarterback Carson Wentz was the reason they missed last season’s playoffs. Then they got veteran quarterback Matt Ryan of the Atlanta Falcons, and the problem should have been solved.
But Indianapolis certainly didn’t look like a club of playoff caliber when they were beaten 24-0 by the Jacksonville Jaguars last week. The Colts had just 218 yards and the first nine downs. Ryan threw three interceptions and was fired five times.
Indianapolis desperately needed a win. The wrong team came to town; Mahomes and the Chiefs are more concerned about improving to 3-0 and won’t have time to feel sorry for the Colts.
But we all know what can happen when a team has its back to the wall. We saw that scenario loud and clear. We’re not saying Indianapolis will win, but the Colts will play house dogs.
Our choice: Colts to cover +5.5 spread
Betting on the NFL?
Total game more than 50.5 points
Mahomes has completed 73 percent of his passes for 595 yards, seven touchdowns and no interceptions. He scored five goals in a season-opening win over the Arizona Cardinals and two more in last week’s win over the Los Angeles Chargers.
There was debate in the off-season about how much Kansas City’s passing game would be affected by Tyreek Hill’s loss to the Miami Dolphins. So far, the effect has been minimal – although the Chiefs are still waiting to see if someone steps in as a winger.
Travis Kelce leads Kansas City in receptions with 13 to increase his career total to 717, the sixth most between tight ends in NFL history. Kelce (172 yards) is definitely on his way to his seventh consecutive 1,000-yard season.
Nothing slows down the Chiefs even if this week becomes a stronger show for Indy.
Our choice: More than 50.5 total points to be scored
Patrick Mahomes over 289.5 yards past
A quick study of the best props available brings up a few options, but we’ve come to all of Mahomes here.
Ryan (over/under 243.5 yard passing) made only one touchdown pass when intercepted four times. He can go beyond yardage with better chances if Indianapolis plays from the back.
The Colts had to release Jonathan Taylor (84.5 yards) against the Chiefs. Last season’s NFL rush leader was third through two games with 215 yards in 40 carries, and a big performance by him will take the pressure off Ryan.
Mahomes, however, is still Mr September, and the hope is that he will have another special appearance.
Our choice: Mahomes over 289.5 yards past
Chiefs odds vs. Colts
Odds courtesy of Caesars Sportsbook. Correct at time of publication and subject to change.
| Total Points 50.5 | Team | scatter | money line |
| Over -110 | Head | (-5.5) -110 | -240 |
| Below -110 | stallion | (+5.5) -110 | +196 |
