12 weeks gone, the Chiefs stand tall with 10 wins and one loss against the Bills. However, the momentum is rising for the playoffs. Just 5 more games, and they will be at the decisive game, where it all comes down to one final match. Patrick Mahomes and Andy Reid are ready. The close encounters such as the week 2 game against the Bengals, the week 9 game against the Buccaneers, and even the week 12 game against the Panthers. The Chiefs won all 3 of these, but it showed that pressure can be applied to them.

Former NFL coach Jimmy Johnson appeared on the November 27 episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd, where he talked about the good and the bad of playing such close games. The ex-NFL HC referred to the games and said, “Those close games I actually think helps their football team. It gives them confidence that they can win the close game they can win at the end when you got Patrick Mahomes and it’s a one-score game. You got a shot, you know, right there.” That’s understandable.

Chiefdom, don’t get too pumped. He also warned the quarterback and the head coach and added, “By the same token, I think it’s also an indication that you’re not quite as good as what you used to be.” That’s interesting. They will have to be prepared for the big games. And it isn’t like they are not giving attention to it.

As Johnson mentioned on the show, the Grim Reaper also understands the importance of this time. Ahead of the Panthers matchup, he told the media, “You want to be playing your best football, going into the playoffs.” So, they are also getting ready. That’s great.

As the playoffs are approaching, the locker room also got the much-needed boost. Their players are getting healthy.

Two key players return to increase the confidence of Patrick Mahomes

One struggle that continued for the Chiefs was in the injury department. Starting offseason, it has worried the Chiefdom, but things are changing as RB Isiah Pacheco and defensive end Charles Omenihu look likely to play against the Raiders in the week 13 game.

When Pacheco fractured his fibula in the week 2 Bengals matchup, he was subsequently placed on the Injured Reserve (IR) list. Patrick Mahomes is happy with the news that both players are back on the gridiron with him.

DE Omenihu didn’t even play any game this season yet as he was on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list. He tore his ACL in early January this year during the AFC Championship game. But he has also worked on his fitness and got ready to play for them now.

Things are getting intense. Each game will give them confidence or shatter it. Patrick Mahomes and Andy Reid aren’t those who will wait. They must be already working on their plans for the big stage.

How do you think the future will pan out for the team? Let us know in the comments below.