Broncos experience familiar disrespect shortly after 2026 schedule release

Broncos open as Week 1 underdog against Kansas City

Now, maybe it's a bit much to be surprised by this. After all, it is the Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium and clearly, oddsmakers expect them to be back after a terrible 2025 season in which they missed the playoffs entirely. It should be somewhat expected that the Chiefs get the benefit of the doubt as favorites by less than a field goal.

But the Broncos don't have to see it that way. They are the defending AFC West champions. They beat Kansas City twice last year and they have nearly all of the same roster back this season. It's uncertain if Patrick Mahomes will even be ready to play, though the oddsmakers clearly feel that he will be on the field.

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These odds can and likely will change before the game actually kicks off on September 14. But for the time being, the chip on the collective shoulder of the Broncos has a chance to grow a bit more.

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