The Kansas City Chiefs return home after 10 days off to host the 6-1 Green Bay Packers on Sunday night.
There are a lot of unknowns surrounding the Chiefs right now. Nothing is official as to who is starting at quarterback for Kansas City, and a few key players could be returning from injury but will most likely be game-time decisions.
Regardless of who plays, the Chiefs have their work cut out for them against a hot Packers team. Let’s take a look at a player from each side of the ball who could help Kansas City get a victory on Sunday night.
RB LeSean McCoy
McCoy is quietly having a nice season for the Chiefs, averaging 5.7 yards per touch. He has earned the tough yards and has made some big plays out of thin air that would usually go for nothing. The Chiefs have been cautious in their usage of him as he has nursed a minor ankle sprain and is on the wrong side of 30.
They may, however, look to increase his workload on Sunday. If backup Matt Moore starts at quarterback, he’ll need to lean on the running game to help with his limitations as a passer. If Patrick Mahomes starts, he’ll need production from the running game to relieve pressure on his injured knee and ankle. The Packers are also allowing a whopping 4.9 yards per carry to opposing running backs this season.
Damien and Darrel Williams are sure to be in the mix, but neither has been as productive as McCoy, with Damien having a rough start to the season. Damien could see more work if Moore starts, because the two have chemistry from their days with the Dolphins. This would be a good week to see how McCoy handles getting 20 or more touches. If effective, it also allows Kansas City to control the clock and keep the explosive Packers offense on the sidelines.
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LB Reggie Ragland
After spending most of the season on the bench, Ragland made an impact last week against the Denver Broncos with multiple run stops, a sack and a fumble recovery for a touchdown. The strength of Ragland’s game is physical play against the run, and he gave the Chiefs a big boost in that department last week.
He’s earned more playing time and hopefully makes the most of it. The Packers have a physical running game with Aaron Jones behind a stout offensive line, so the Chiefs will be looking to Ragland to set the tone against them. Watch for him to also bring the blitz and get some pressure on quarterback Aaron Rodgers.
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