After failing to finish off an undefeated season and getting upset in Super Bowl 42, the New England Patriots look to start a new streak as they open the 2008 campaign against the Kansas City Chiefs at Gillette Stadium. The Patriots won their first 18 games of the season before a 17-14 loss to the New York Giants in the Super Bowl. Tom Brady set an NFL single-season record with 50 touchdown passes, with Randy Moss on the receiving end of those scores a record 23 times. The Pats put up 589 points during a 16-and-0 regular season and will once again be considered the team to beat in the AFC.

The Chiefs are at the other end of the spectrum, having tied for the second-worst record in the conference at 4-and-12 a year ago. After Trent Green was traded to the Dolphins, Brodie Croyle took over for Damon Huard under center in mid-season. Meanwhile, All-Pro running back Larry Johnson was limited to just 559 yards and three touchdowns while missing eight games with a foot injury. KC also traded sack leader Jared Allen for draft picks in an effort to accelerate the rebuilding process.