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The Atlanta Falcons face the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 1 of the 2012 NFL season in what will be Tony Gonzalez' first game in Arrowhead Stadium wearing something other than a Chiefs uniform. The tight end was drafted 13th overall by the Chiefs in 1997 and played for the team until 2009, when he was traded to Atlanta midway through the season.
Gonzalez holds Chiefs records in receiving yards (10,940), receptions (916) and touchdown receptions (76). Gonzalez was traded because he wanted to play for a playoff contender and the Chiefs were years away, so he was dealt to Atlanta for a second-round draft pick. The Falcons regularly make the playoffs, but they haven't had a win there since 2004.
Atlanta enters another season with Matt Ryan under center, and they have the 2011 NFC-leading rusher in Michael Turner. Four-time Pro Bowler Asante Samuel is a fresh addition to the defense.
The Chiefs begin the season with Romeo Crennel at the helm. He took over as head coach midway through the 2011 season, taking the Chiefs to a 2-1 record in their final three games, including being the only team to beat the Green Bay Packers in the regular season.
As always, the Falcons enter the season with a lot of potential and expectations to match. They'll have a chance to show fans how the season is going to go on Sunday.
Game Time: 1 p.m. ET
TV Coverage: FOX
Odds: Atlanta favored by three points
Stick with SB Nation Atlanta for more coverage of the Falcons in Week 1. For all things Falcons, check out The Falcoholic. For the Chiefs perspective, head over to Arrowhead Pride.