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Chiefs’ Defense Ready to Face Commanders’ Returning Offensive Duo

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After an impressive shutout victory over the Las Vegas Raiders, the Kansas City Chiefs’ defense is riding high heading into Monday night’s clash against the Washington Commanders.

Washington will be without rookie QB Jayden Daniels due to injury, but veteran Marcus Mariota — one of the league’s most capable backups — will step in. The Commanders’ offense also receives a massive boost as star wide receivers Terry McLaurin and Deebo Samuel return from injury, giving Mariota two dynamic targets to work with.

Chiefs safety Bryan Cook shared his excitement about the matchup:

“We look forward to it. They’re great players. We’re competitors, so we’d like for them to have their best foot forward, and we’ll do the same.”

Cook noted he’s familiar with Samuel’s physical style and praised McLaurin’s explosiveness:

“McLaurin is a pretty good receiver — very fast and explosive. It’s great to see him back healthy.”

Before his injury, Samuel had been in great form with 34 receptions for 315 yards and three touchdowns, along with 45 rushing yards and another score. McLaurin, meanwhile, has had a challenging year, missing training camp and most of the season due to a contract dispute and quad injury. But when healthy, he’s one of the league’s most underrated receivers.

If McLaurin and Samuel can stay on the field, they could form one of the most dynamic duos in football. However, Kansas City’s defense — ranked fourth in the NFL against the pass, allowing just 174 yards per game — is more than ready for the challenge.

 

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