The Kansas City Chiefs are entering Week 13 of the 2024 NFL season with momentum on their side, fresh off a hard-fought victory over the Carolina Panthers.
As they prepare to face the Las Vegas Raiders on Black Friday at Arrowhead Stadium, the team is expected to receive a significant boost: the return of star running back Isiah Pacheco.
Head coach Andy Reid and quarterback Patrick Mahomes are no strangers to short weeks, and this one presents a unique challenge against a division rival. The Raiders, though struggling this season, remain a team Kansas City must take seriously. However, with Pacheco reportedly poised to return after a long absence, the Chiefs have every reason to feel confident heading into this matchup.
Pacheco, who fractured his fibula in Week 2 against the Cincinnati Bengals, has been sidelined for much of the season. His absence led to the Chiefs placing him on Injured Reserve, but his practice window opened prior to their Week 11 game against the Buffalo Bills. While Reid opted to delay his return, the timing now appears perfect as Kansas City seeks to solidify its standing in the AFC playoff race.
CBS Sports’ Jonathan Jones offered encouraging news during his “Eye on the NFL” segment, noting that reinforcements are on the horizon for Kansas City. “Expect running back Isiah Pacheco back on Black Friday against the Raiders,” Jones reported. Alongside Pacheco, the Chiefs are also expected to debut pass rusher Charles Omenihu, adding firepower on both sides of the ball.
During Pacheco’s absence, the Chiefs turned to Kareem Hunt, who rejoined the team to provide stability in the running game. Hunt quickly adapted, becoming Kansas City’s primary ball carrier and delivering several strong performances. Reid expressed confidence in his ability to integrate both players into the offense seamlessly.
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“We’ll find a way,” Reid stated when asked about sharing backfield responsibilities between Pacheco and Hunt. “Both of them are good players, so we’ll find a way to get both of them in, if and when that takes place. That’s a good problem to have.”
For Mahomes, the prospect of having both Hunt and Pacheco available is an exciting development. The Chiefs’ offense, already dynamic, becomes even more unpredictable with two versatile backs capable of dominating on the ground and contributing in the passing game.
While Reid has yet to officially confirm Pacheco’s availability, the expectation of his return is a morale boost for the team. Pacheco’s physicality and explosive running style are key assets that have been sorely missed. His ability to break tackles and create big plays adds a layer of versatility to an already potent offense.
Meanwhile, Kansas City enters the game as clear favorites against a Raiders team enduring a difficult season. Las Vegas has dropped its last seven games, and head coach Antonio Pierce now faces the added challenge of competing without a key player. The Chiefs, by contrast, appear poised to take full advantage of the Raiders’ struggles.
The stakes remain high for Kansas City. As the defending Super Bowl champions, every game matters in their quest to secure home-field advantage in the playoffs. The potential return of Pacheco, coupled with the steady contributions of Hunt, positions the Chiefs to dominate the AFC West and beyond.
The Black Friday clash offers a prime opportunity for Kansas City to showcase its depth and resilience. With Reid’s leadership, Mahomes’ brilliance, and a rejuvenated backfield, the Chiefs are well-equipped to keep their Super Bowl aspirations alive. As they prepare to take the field, one thing is clear: Kansas City is ready to shine under the Arrowhead lights.
