The National Football League has announced the official Week 18 schedule, which is often set only near season's end so that broadcasters can rearrange games according to levels of interest (or boredom in this case). When it comes to the Kansas City Chiefs, the powers-that-be got things absolutely correct.
The Chiefs always knew they were traveling to Las Vegas on Sunday, January 4 since last May when the NFL unveiled the regular-season schedule, so it's not as if the league is putting anyone out too much by not revealing the finer plot points. That said, when they finally nailed those down, they felt quite appropriate for all parties involved.
The Chiefs and Raiders will be taking the field on Sunday afternoon at 3:25 CT. Looking around at the rest of the slate, it's clear that the league thinks as highly of Andy Reid versus Pete Carroll in 2026 as the rest of us.
What's immediately clear about the scheduled kickoff time at Allegiant Stadium is that no one is playing in primetime here. It's a throwaway time for a throwaway game. The Pittsburgh Steelers versus the Baltimore Ravens are being showcased on Sunday Night Football, which is fitting for all that's at stake in the AFC playoff picture there.
The NFL also scheduled the Los Angeles Chargers' visit to play the Denver Broncos at the exact same time, so even hardcore AFC West fans won't even tune in for the misery-fest known as Chiefs-Raiders.
The NFL's Week 18 schedule reveal got things right when it comes to the Chiefs-Raiders matchup.
At least Chiefs Kingdom can look forward to the game with the future in mind. The Chiefs should unleash all their young horses in Vegas, which could equal the first long looks at a handful of exciting young players. Of course, nothing is guaranteed there, but injuries will necessitate some playing time for reserves and rookies. Other roster elevations indicate the K.C. might usher in even more of a youth movement in Week 18.
On defense, linebacker Jeffrey Bassa will be a key player to watch with 2026 in view. The same can be said of nickel corner Kevin Knowles and veteran Kristian Fulton, who was left on the sidelines for most of the year. With Trent McDuffie and Jaylen Watson on injured reserve to end the year, there's plenty of playing time in a depleted secondary. Maybe Melvin Smith will also get some late-year reps.
On offense, tackles Esa Pole and Chu Godrick will get another full game to show what they can do up front. Wide receiver Jalen Royals will hopefully get a few targets after sitting through a redshirt rookie campaign. And, of course, all eyes will be on Chris Oladokun under center as he makes a strong bid for backup consideration going forward at quarterback.
For anyone who is not a diehard Chiefs fan, however, Week 18 holds little interest. The NFL knows it, which is why the game is being treated the way it is.