2025 NFL Week 1 betting Chiefs-Chargers betting odds picks for Brazil game - ESPN

The NFL begins its International Games slate Friday with an AFC West matchup between the Kansas City Chiefs and Los Angeles Chargers in São Paulo.

The division is expected to be tight once again this season after three teams reached the playoffs in 2024. The Chiefs went 15-2 on their way to a ninth straight division title and third straight Super Bowl appearance. The Chargers went 11-6 in Jim Harbaugh's first year at the helm.

Kansas City, the division favorite at -120, has won seven straight in the series, but only two of those games have been decided by a touchdown or more.

The teams won't meet again until Week 15. Kickoff for Friday's game is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET (YouTube).

From odds and trends to picks, props and analysis from our experts, here's everything you need to help make your decisions at the betting window.

Note: Odds at time of publication. For the latest updates, visit ESPN BET.

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Kansas City Chiefs vs. Los Angeles Chargers

Pamela Maldonado: This comes down to continuity versus transition, and I'll back Patrick Mahomes and Andy Reid every time. The Chiefs offense isn't flashy anymore, but it's methodical — quick throws, sustained drives and elite third-down conversion rates. That matches up perfectly against a Chargers defense that looked great last year… until they faced elite QBs. Against Mahomes, Lamar Jackson and Joe Burrow? They allowed a combined 101 passer rating and 46% success rate.

Meanwhile, the Chargers' run game ranked 28th in success rate last year, and outside of Ladd McConkey, the wide receiver room is still inconsistent. Neutral site, new offense and Mahomes' rapid release in Brazil? I'll take the better QB, better coach and better