Kansas City Chiefs fans and bettors alike were riding high after their Week 1 victory over the Ravens. However, their spirits were dampened on Friday afternoon with the news that wide receiver Marquise “Hollywood” Brown would require surgery for his sternoclavicular injury, landing him on injured reserve. This raises a pressing question: how will this impact the Chiefs’ receiving corps in their upcoming clash against the Cincinnati Bengals, as well as for the foreseeable future? Let’s delve into the ramifications of Brown’s injury.
Looking at the betting odds, Kansas City is currently listed as a home favorite against the Bengals. Even factoring in the typical advantage of home-field, which is roughly 1.5 points according to today’s NFL betting market, the Chiefs would still be priced at about -4 on a neutral playing field.
It’s worth noting that Brown’s absence did not cause any significant shifts in the point spread, as only the most exceptional wide receivers tend to have that kind of impact. However, when it comes to player props for the Chiefs’ receiving corps, the situation is more nuanced. Despite initial reports suggesting Brown might play, the betting market had already factored in his unlikeliness to take the field for this game.
As a result, the receiving props for players like Rashee Rice have seen minimal movement. Rice currently holds the second-highest yardage prop (65.5 at Fanatics Sportsbook) in the upcoming matchup, just trailing behind the Bengals’ Ja’Marr Chase. Additionally, Rice is considered one of the frontrunners to score a touchdown at any point during the game.
Another player to keep an eye on is rookie Xavier Worthy, who made a splash with two touchdowns in his NFL debut. Brown’s injury provided Worthy with increased opportunities in the season opener, and his receiving yards prop was initially set at 44.5 before the game kicked off. Following a performance just slightly above this mark, sportsbooks like Fanatics have slightly adjusted Worthy’s prop to 45.5 yards.
For the most up-to-date props on both Rice and Worthy, refer to the listings below.
In a press conference on Friday, Chiefs head coach Andy Reid confirmed that Brown will be sidelined for “months” due to his injury. This prolonged absence not only impacts the team’s immediate future but also bolsters Worthy’s chances of making a strong case for Offensive Rookie of the Year honors.
