Kansas City Chiefs vs. Detroit Lions: Start time, where to watch. odds and more

Kansas City Chiefs are set to host the Detroit Lions in a high-stakes Sunday Night Football clash that could prove pivotal for their 2025 campaign. With a 2-3 record heading into Week 6, the Chiefs are aiming to reassert themselves as serious contenders in the AFC while defending Arrowhead Stadium against a surging NFC opponent.

Chiefs look to rebound at home

The Chiefs have faced some turbulence this season, including offensive inconsistencies and injuries, but Patrick Mahomes and Co. are ready to bounce back. Hosting the Lions at Arrowhead Stadium on Sunday, Oct. 12, offers Kansas City a chance to turn momentum in their favor. The kickoff is scheduled for 8:20 p.m. ET, with national coverage on NBC and streaming available via Peacock and Fubo (free trial).

Kansas City’s home-field advantage will be critical, as the Chiefs aim to exploit the Lions’ defensive vulnerabilities while providing Mahomes the platform to make a statement against Jared Goff and Detroit’s high-powered offense.

Key Chiefs advantages

While the Lions enter the contest with a 4-1 record, the Chiefs remain a slight favorite at home, reflecting their pedigree as one of the NFL’s most dominant teams over the past decade. Injuries for the Lions, including the absence of cornerbacks Terrion Arnold and D.J. Reed and defensive tackle Alim McNeill, give the Chiefs additional confidence in exploiting matchups along the offensive line and secondary.

Kansas City’s offense-led by Mahomes will look to capitalize on these gaps. Mahomes has already shown the ability to elevate his game in must-win scenarios, and this matchup provides the perfect opportunity to do so against a Lions team that has proven susceptible under pressure.

Chiefs vs. Lions: Historical context

The Chiefs and Lions have met 15 times in NFL history, dating back to 1971. While the Lions hold a 6-9 edge in the all-time series, the Chiefs are determined to maintain dominance at home and turn the tide in their favor after last season’s mixed results against NFC competition. Arrowhead Stadium has historically provided a fortress-like environment, which Kansas City will leverage to disrupt Detroit’s rhythm.

Betting lines and odds

Per BetMGM, the Chiefs are favored by 2½ points. The over/under for the game sits at 52½ points, with Kansas City’s moneyline at -140 versus the Lions’ +118. These odds reflect the Chiefs’ status as the home favorite while acknowledging the Lions’ dangerous offensive capabilities.

Where to Watch and Listen

Date: Sunday, Oct. 12

Kickoff: 8:20 p.m. ET

TV: NBC

Streaming: Peacock, Fubo (free trial)

Radio (Kansas City fans): Local coverage via Chiefs flagship stations