Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid has announced the playing time for the Saturday night game against the Rams.
On Saturday, the Chiefs will be visiting the Rams for the second of four preseason tilts. After practice on Thursday, Reid told the media that Alex Smith and the rest of the starters will be playing the entire first half. This was the same thing that was done last year, as the starters playing the first halves of both the second and third preseason games.
Reid also talked about Jamaal Charles and Phillip Gaines, two players returning from torn ACLs. Charles, who was activated off the PUP list earlier this week, will not be playing. This should come as no surprise, as Charles has only had three practices. Meanwhile, Gaines will also be held out for the second straight game. This is becoming more of a concern.
Without Charles, we will be seeing plenty of Spencer Ware and Charcandrick West. On the defensive side, Gaines is going to be replaced by Marcus Cooper and Steven Nelson. Cooper is quietly having a great camp and played well against Seattle last week.
Andy Reid said plan is for Alex Smith to play the first half as well, but that could change. Added he "makes those decisions on the fly."
— Chiefs Reporter (@ChiefsReporter) August 18, 2016
CB Phillip Gaines probably will not play Saturday.
— Matt Derrick (@mattderrick) August 18, 2016
Per Andy Reid: Jamaal Charles will not play in this weekend's game versus the Rams. Jeremy Maclin is expected to play. #Chiefs
— 610SportsKC (@610SportsKC) August 18, 2016
#Chiefs coach Andy Reid said this was the best training camp he's had since coming to KC, but added it should be that way in year four.
— Chiefs Reporter (@ChiefsReporter) August 18, 2016
It’s also good news that Maclin will be able to compete after having to miss practice on Wednesday with a groin injury. Hopefully the Chiefs can avoid injuries the rest of the preseason.