“We Do It Every Day In Practice”: Kansas City Chiefs Head Coach Andy Reid Confirms Travis Kelce’s 3rd And 22 Lateral Play Was Planned

In Monday’s game against the New Orleans Saints, Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid confirmed the team’s plan for a head-turning lateral. Patrick Mahomes completed a pass to Travis Kelce, who lateraled it to Samaje Perine. The Chiefs missed a first down and converted the ensuing fourth down before ending the drive with a field goal.

Andy Reid revealed that Travis Kelce’s lateral play was planned

Andy Reid says the Travis Kelce lateral was a designed play 🧠

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The Kansas City Chiefs faced the New Orleans Saints in a game with key players missing, including Rashee Rice, who is likely out for the season due to a knee injury. The Chiefs needed someone else to lead the passing game, as Rice was their leading receiver for the first four weeks of the season. Travis Kelce, who had eight catches for 67 yards in the first half, stepped in as a replacement, having become more involved in the last two weeks.
Kelce’s biggest play in the first half was a 3rd and 22-yard touchdown by the Chiefs. Mahomes hit Kelce across the middle, drawing defenders and lateralizing it to Samaje Perine, who ran close to the marker. The Chiefs scored a field goal in the fourth quarter, but the team was unsure if it was a designed play or an impromptu one. Joe Buck and Troy Aikman were in the booth, and Andy Reid confirmed they work on the play “every day” in practice, but won’t reveal the name. The Chiefs’ play was a significant moment in the game. “We do it every day in practice,” Reid said when asked if the play was planned or not.

Kelce has previously lateraled a live ball after coming down with a catch, as seen in a showdown with the Buffalo Bills last season. The play, which would have been the go-ahead touchdown, was nullified as Toney lined up in the neutral zone before the snap. Chiefs running backs and wide receivers must keep their heads swivel when playing with Kelce, as he can unleash a lateral if he sees an opening and has practiced such plays. The Saints were unprepared for Monday’s play, resulting in a long gain.