The Chiefs finally left Kansas City International Airport to play their game in Denver on Saturday after spending about four hours stuck on the tarmac in a snowstorm that blanketed the area ahead of an impending blizzard.
The Chiefs attempted to climb to the top of the flight because the weather, which had been forecast all week, prevented them from getting there. But the plane they were expected to use was late arriving, so the team had to commit to a mid-afternoon departure, and just before takeoff, airport officials announced the suspension of all flight operations due to “rapid ice accumulation.”
There was a short break between the line of snow covering Kansas City and the arrival of heavy snow, which was expected to continue throughout the day Sunday. This provided enough time to defrost the plane, clear the runway, and get the bosses off the ground.
Their charter plane was the first to depart once airport operations resumed. The team’s
The Chiefs (15-1) clinched the No. 1 seed in the playoffs and in the first round, making the regular season finals moot for them. But the game has a lot of meaning for Denver, which could clinch its spot in the playoffs if it wins.
Earlier this week, Chiefs coach Andy Reid said he planned to rest quarterback Patrick Mahomes, meaning backup Carson Wentz would start. The Chiefs also announced right tackle Jawaan Taylor (knee) and running back Isiah Pacheco (ribs), while stars like defensive tackle Chris Jones and tight end Travis Kelce were expected to sit out the game.
The Chiefs will have to wait to find out their playoff opponent. The earliest time to play in the divisional round is January 18.