The Kansas City Chiefs’ season has been on a rollercoaster ride marked by highs and lows. Despite facing setbacks with consecutive losses in recent weeks, they showed resilience by clinching a crucial victory against the New England Patriots. However, their momentum was short-lived as they stumbled yet again against the Las Vegas Raiders during the Christmas game.
The Chiefs still maintain their lead in the AFC West but face a tightening race with the Raiders. The recent 20-14 loss to the Raiders has put pressure on the team, leaving them with just two games to play and a slim two-game lead over the Raiders. Adding to their challenges, the injury of running back Isiah Pacheco has further impacted the team’s dynamics.
Isiah Pacheco injury update
During Friday’s practice, Isiah Pacheco participated to a limited extent, signaling a potential comeback. However, Coach Andy Reid said while the practice was a step in the right direction, there remained hurdles before the RB could be cleared for game day.
“So he practiced today, which is a part of that protocol. We have to see how he [does] after today. Just from talking to him out there, he did well during the practice, but there’s more to it than that”, Reid said.
Hope soared as NFL insider Adam Schefter reported that Isiah Pacheco had successfully navigated the NFL’s stringent concussion protocol, which paved the way for his return. Despite this positive development, the Chiefs’ official injury report maintained Pacheco’s status as “questionable.”
The veteran’s injury stemmed from a third-quarter collision in the Chiefs Christmas game loss to the Las Vegas Raiders when a helmet mishap led to an inadvertent head blow from center Creed Humphrey.
He was ruled out for the Week 14 game against the Buffalo Bills as well. Pacheco’s impact on the field is undeniable as he emerged as the defending champion’s primary rushing force by amassing an impressive 805 yards as well as seven touchdowns in just 13 games this season.
Chiefs vs Bengals match preview
The Chiefs clash against the Bengals holds added significance as the defending champion aims to reclaim their dominant form against a familiar AFC rival. Set for Sunday, December 31, at 3:25 p.m. CT, the game will air on CBS (KCTV-5 locally) and stream live on FuboTV. Fans can also tune in via WDAF (106.5 FM) for the Chiefs Radio Network coverage.
Patrick Mahomes squad hosted the Bengals in consecutive AFC Championship games by setting the stage for a rivalry defined by an intense competition. However, this encounter diverges from past meetings, marked by both teams operating at a lower offensive output. Despite the downturn, the vulnerable Bengals defense presents an opportunity for the Chiefs to capitalize.
The odds favor the Chiefs, installed as 6.5-point favorites on the spread, with an over/under of 44 total points.
