Crash in Brazil

Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh denied that he's thinking about the challenges of starting the season in Brazil.

Harbaugh recalled his feelings when he learned that Los Angeles would be making the long trip to face the Kansas City Chiefs in the South American country.

“I was excited about it. We're on a world stage, it's the only Friday night game,” Harbaugh said before the Chargers held their practice at the training facility used by the Corinthians soccer club, which owns the stadium where the Chargers will play today.

“It’s an honor to be selected to play in this match,” he said.

Quarterback Justin Herbert, who is making his first trip to South America, agreed.

“I've only heard good things about the place,” Herbert commented. “I've heard it's going to be very loud; the fans are very passionate.”

Sao Paulo is hosting only its second NFL game. The Brazilian city is part of seven games the league will host abroad this season, a record number that includes opening stops in Berlin, Dublin, and Madrid.

Last year, before the Philadelphia Eagles defeated the Green Bay Packers in Sao Paulo, fans and some players complained about the long journey and the potential risk of violence in the Brazilian metropolis. Instead, many left the country excited after enjoying the raucous atmosphere at the NeoQuimica Arena.

On social media, Brazilian support appears to be leaning toward star quarterback Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs, who have won seven straight against Los Angeles.

Corinthians midfielder Raniele, who watched the Chargers practice, said he doesn't support any NFL team, but will attend to see the team that recently won three Super Bowls.

“It's incredible, everyone here wants to see it in person,” Raniele said. “The winner of this match will be the one who gets the chance to see it in person.”

Face to face

The Chargers, who led the NFL in scoring defense in 2024 by allowing 17.7 points per game, begin the season under Harbaugh undefeated in opening games (5-0).

The team surrounded quarterback Justin Herbert with new pieces, including rookies Omarion Hampton and Tre' Harris, as well as Keenan Allen, Najee Harris, and Tyler Conklin.

For one more

The Chiefs, seeking their 10th consecutive AFC West title and sixth Super Bowl appearance in seven years, will play without their leading receiver, Rashee Rice, who has been suspended for six games. Patrick Mahomes will have Xavier Worthy and Marquise Brown as his main targets.

Travis Kelce has 1,004 receptions and 12,151 yards, the third-highest among tight ends, and needs three touchdowns to tie Priest Holmes (83) as the franchise leader.

Kicker Harrison Butker is eight points shy of 1,000, while Chris Jones needs 5 1/2 sacks to surpass Neil Smith (85 1/2) for third in Kansas City history.

The Chiefs are 51-9 against divisional opponents over the past decade and have rebuilt the left side of their offensive line with Josh Simmons and Kingsley Suamataia.— AP

Title second title

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