The Kansas City Chiefs are entering the final week of the regular season with nothing on the line in their matchup with the Denver Broncos. In response to the low-stakes game on Kansas City’s side, it will serve as a showcase game for backups and players hoping to figure more into the postseason game plan.
During his Wednesday press conference, Chiefs head coach Andy Reid confirmed the quarterback change for this Sunday. Patrick Mahomes won’t play in Denver in favor of veteran backup Carson Wentz, one of many starters expected to sit out the game.
“It wasn’t a hard decision; I’ve been through it before,” said Reid. “I’m not too worried. It gives the other guys an opportunity to grow.”
The decision to start Wentz over Mahomes was expected as Kansas City is focused on keeping stars healthy ahead of the postseason’s divisional round. Reid has experience dealing with games to rest ahead of the playoffs and trusts the preparation in practice to keep players sharp.
Wentz’s last NFL start came in Week 18 last year as a member of the Los Angeles Rams. He finished with 17 completions for 163 yards, two touchdowns, and an interception in that game. He played briefly in relief of Mahomes this season, with two completions for 20 yards in two appearances.