Chiefs’ Isiah Pacheco Set to Return for Thanksgiving Clash with Cowboys

The Kansas City Chiefs are poised to welcome back running back Isiah Pacheco for their Thanksgiving Day clash against the Dallas Cowboys on November 23, 2023. Chiefs head coach Andy Reid announced on Tuesday that he anticipates Pacheco will return from a knee injury that sidelined him for three games.

Pacheco has been a key player for the Chiefs, starting the first eight games of the season and accumulating 329 rushing yards along with one touchdown. Reid stated, “We’ll see how he does today, but we’ll get him in there. He’ll play. How much, I can’t tell you that right now. See how it goes.”

Despite returning to practice last week, Pacheco was held out of the Chiefs’ recent overtime victory against the Indianapolis Colts. In that game, Kareem Hunt stepped up significantly, carrying the ball a career-high 30 times for 104 yards and scoring a touchdown. Reid expressed his pride in Hunt’s performance, noting, “He’s upright, which is a positive thing. He’s doing good. It just shows you what he’s put into it.”

The Chiefs, currently holding a record of 6-5, have relied heavily on the passing game throughout the season. This trend has been influenced by their run-pass options, which often lead to downfield throws. However, Hunt’s strong performance against Indianapolis allowed quarterback Patrick Mahomes to achieve a season-high 352 passing yards, further opening the offensive playbook.

Offensive coordinator Matt Nagy remarked on Hunt’s endurance, saying, “We joke with him, 30 carries for somebody who is no spring chicken, but he’s so tough. He’s such a valuable part of this offense.”

As preparations continue for the Cowboys game, the Chiefs may face challenges in their offensive line. Right guard Trey Smith missed practice on Tuesday due to an ankle injury, likely paving the way for Mike Caliendo to start in his place. Additionally, tight end Noah Gray is expected to be unavailable after entering the concussion protocol following Sunday’s game.

With Pacheco’s anticipated return and key players stepping up, the Chiefs are gearing up for a crucial matchup against the Cowboys. The outcome may significantly impact their playoff aspirations as the season progresses.