Patrick Mahomes isn’t completely back from his knee injury, but he has accounted for two touchdowns and the Chiefs lead the Broncos 14-7 at halftime.
Mahomes ran for a 15-yard touchdown on the Chiefs’ first series. The 10-play, 46-yard drive was set up by rookie cornerback Mansoor Delane’s interception of Bo Nix on the third play.
The Chiefs had only 15 plays for 39 yards on their next three possessions before going 80 yards in 10 plays. Rashee Rice had a 13-yard catch-and-run for a touchdown on a pass from Mahomes.
Mahomes is only 8-of-18 for 62 yards and a touchdown after starting 2-for-12. He has completed a pass to six different wide receivers.
He also has two rushes for 23 yards and a touchdown.
Mahomes was a long shot to play the season opener after tearing the ACL and LCL in his left knee on Dec. 14. He underwent reconstructive surgery the following day.
The Chiefs, though, have leaned on their running game and their Super Bowl MVP running back. Kenneth Walker has 14 carries for 89 yards, tying the most rushes in the first half of a game started by Mahomes, and also has two catches for 16 yards.
The Chiefs have outgained the Broncos 182 to 113.
Nix is 12-of-17 for 98 yards with a touchdown and an interception, with Pat Bryant catching four passes for 42 yards. Evan Engram scored on a 19-yard reception.
The Broncos have only six rushes for 23 yards.