Chiefs vs. Patriots to Open 2017 NFL Regular Season Schedule in Foxborough

The New England Patriots will open their 2017 title defense at home against the Kansas City Chiefs, the NFL announced Thursday. The teams will face off Thursday, Sept. 9.

New England and Kansas City last met in the 2015 season's divisional round, with the Patriots earning a 27-20 victory.

The Patriots have yet to suffer a Super Bowl hangover in their return to the field. They're 4-0 so far in their last four season-openers following a title win:

Year	Opponent	Result
2002	Pittsburgh Steelers	Win, 30-14
2004	Indianapolis Colts	Win, 27-24
2005	Oakland Raiders	Win, 30-20
2015	Pittsburgh Steelers	Win, 28-21

Most fans will expect New England to continue the trend.

The Patriots have been aggressive in attempting to capitalize on their current championship window. They traded for Dwayne Allen, Kony Ealy and Brandin Cooks and signed Stephon Gilmore. New England also re-signed Dont'a Hightower.

The Chiefs, meanwhile, re-signed Eric Berry but have done little else to strengthen their roster. Granted, Kansas City is still relying on a core of players who have delivered back-to-back trips to the postseason.

New England and Kansas City's Week 1 clash will likely provide a barometer for the hierarchy in the AFC.

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