The Kansas City Chiefs enter Week 18 riding high with a remarkable 15-1 record. After their commanding Christmas Day victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers, the Chiefs have secured the AFC’s No. 1 seed, ensuring home-field advantage throughout the playoffs and a clear path to the Super Bowl. With nothing left to prove in the regular season, the big question for Chiefs fans is whether head coach Andy Reid will rest his starters or play them in the final game against the division-rival Denver Broncos.

Rest vs. Momentum: The Patrick Mahomes Dilemma

At the center of the debate is two-time NFL MVP Patrick Mahomes. Mahomes, who has been nursing an ankle injury since Week 15, is the engine of Kansas City’s high-powered offense. Some argue that playing Mahomes would maintain the team’s momentum heading into the playoffs, while others see an opportunity for the superstar quarterback to recover fully during the upcoming bye week.td

However, according to NFL insider Peter Schrager of Fox Sports, the Chiefs are opting for caution. Mahomes will not play in Week 18, paving the way for backup quarterback Carson Wentz to take the reins. Schrager even hinted that practice squad quarterback Chris Oladokun could be elevated and see playing time in the matchup.

“I’m told Mahomes is not going to play next week,” Schrager reported. “Carson Wentz is going to start, and I’ll go one step further. They might elevate practice squad quarterback Chris Oladokun to come in, and he might get snaps in this game.”

A Different Chiefs Look Against Denver

Resting starters for a game with no playoff implications is a common strategy for teams in Kansas City’s position. Schrager further confirmed that the Broncos will face “mostly backups,” signaling that the Chiefs are prioritizing player health and depth evaluation over risking injury to key contributors.

“It’s going to be a different version of them (Chiefs), mostly backups,” Schrager added. “We’ll see how it goes, but Carson Wentz has played some good football in his career.”

This decision not only allows Mahomes and other stars like tight end Travis Kelce and defensive lineman Chris Jones to recuperate but also provides an opportunity for backups to gain valuable game experience. For Carson Wentz, it’s a chance to prove himself once more after a rollercoaster career, while Chris Oladokun could showcase his potential in his first NFL action.td

What This Means for the Broncos

The news of the Chiefs resting their starters is music to the ears of Broncos fans. With a playoff spot on the line, Denver will be highly motivated to take advantage of Kansas City’s makeshift lineup. A victory would secure the Broncos the AFC’s final playoff berth, a significant achievement after an up-and-down season.

Looking Ahead

The Chiefs’ decision to rest Mahomes and other starters demonstrates their confidence in the long-term strategy of entering the playoffs healthy and well-prepared. While Week 18 might lack the intensity of earlier matchups, Kansas City is keeping its eyes firmly on the ultimate prize: another Lombardi Trophy.

As the Broncos fight for their postseason lives, Week 18 promises to be an intriguing battle, even without the star power of Patrick Mahomes. For the Chiefs, it’s a calculated move that prioritizes their ultimate goal — a deep playoff run and a potential Super Bowl victory.