The NFL season is nearly upon us as we head into Week 3 of the preseason. The Kansas City Chiefs and Minnesota Vikings are set to play on Friday, which will be a big game for players on the roster bubble.

It is unclear if the Chiefs will play their starters while the Vikings are unlikely to play their starters.

The Chiefs are coming off a loss in the Super Bowl to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. They had horrible protection for Patrick Mahomes in the Super Bowl, and they prioritized retooling the line.

The Chiefs signed guard Joe Thuney along with center Austin Blythe. They also pulled off a deal for offensive tackle Orlando Brown Jr., who should have a huge impact.

These additions should pay big dividends for the Chiefs offense this season.

This game should showcase what players will make the final roster. With that said, here are 4 predictions for the Chiefs game against the Vikings.

Chiefs predictions: 4. Mecole Hardman gets another TD

Last week, Mecole Hardman had a decent game that included a touchdown. He's been a solid receiver for the Chiefs over the past few seasons but has not been a great second option. Last season, Hardman had 4 receptions for 39 yards and a touchdown.

Hardman has always been a deep threat, however, he could improve the rest of his game and become a great target for Mahomes. Look for Hardman to get into the endzone again against the Vikings, as he works on improving his game.

3. Byron Pringle shines again

Byron Pringle had a great preseason week 2 performance, which has ensued questions on becoming the wide receiver two for the Chiefs. Tyreek Hill is obviously the top receiver, but the Chiefs have not had a solidified second receiver. Pringle's progression could emerge him to fill this role.

Last week, Pringle had 4 catches for 63 yards. While it may not seem like much production, Pringle played a great game and showed the impact he can have.

Look for Pringle to shine again in this matchup against the Vikings.

2. Chiefs pass for over 350 yards

Even in the preseason, the Chiefs are great through the passing game. Whether Mahomes plays or not, Andy Reid's scheme should produce good passing numbers. In the last game, K.C. quarterbacks combined for 317 yards, but they could jump up to over 350 against the Vikings.

Andy Reid is an offensive mastermind, and his offensive scheme has been elite with the defending AFC champions. Reid has built this great offense around Mahomes, which has led the team to a consistent stream of success. They are bound to continue this success this season and make another deep playoff run.

Look for Kansas City to throw for over 350 yards in their elite offensive scheme.

1. Chiefs' defense plays well

Throughout the preseason, the Chiefs' defense has played really well. While the offense is still the strength of the team, it is vital to have a solid defense as well. They only allowed 16 points in their first preseason game against the San Francisco 49ers and only 10 points against the Arizona Cardinals.

Obviously, these numbers will go up in the regular season, but it is still promising to the defense not to allow many points. Look for the K.C. defense to continue playing well against the Vikings, and carry it over to the regular season.

Kansas City is primed to have another great season, especially with an improved offensive line.