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As Super Bowl LIX approaches on February 9 in New Orleans, excitement is building. Two standout Latino athletes from the Kansas City Chiefs—running back Isiah Pacheco and punter Matt Araiza—are among the key players to watch. These two players will play pivotal roles as the Chiefs aim for an unprecedented third consecutive championship.
Isiah Pacheco has been a key contributor to the Chiefs' offense, and Super Bowl LIX marks his third appearance in the big game in as many seasons. In the AFC Championship Game against the Buffalo Bills, Pacheco had five carries for 12 yards and two receptions for another 12 yards, playing 19 offensive snaps. Though his role wasn't as dominant in this game, he played crucial in Kansas City's path to victory.
© Diamond Images/Getty ImagesOne of the game's defining moments came with less than two minutes remaining in the fourth quarter. The Chiefs were clinging to a 32-29 lead when Pacheco powered through Bills safety Cole Bishop for a key first down, helping Kansas City seal their win. His physical running style and clutch performances have made him integral to the Chiefs' success.
Already a two-time Super Bowl champion, Pacheco is on the verge of joining an elite group of Latino players with multiple rings. If he wins, he will be just one title away from tying Tom Flores and Ted Hendricks, the only Latino players with four Super Bowl championships.
© Getty ImagesMatt Araiza: From Controversy to the Super Bowl
Punter Matt Araiza has taken an unconventional path to the NFL. After missing his rookie season due to legal challenges, Araiza found a fresh start with the Chiefs in 2024 and has proven to be a valuable asset. In the AFC Championship Game, Araiza recorded two punts for 93 yards, with a longest punt of 51. While none landed inside the 20-yard line, his ability to flip field position has been an important factor for Kansas City.
Araiza also played a critical role in the Chiefs' victory over Buffalo, holding the ball for Harrison Butker's game-winning 35-yard field goal. His reliability as a holder has made him an essential component of Kansas City's special teams unit.
© Getty ImagesDuring the 2024 season, Araiza punted 62 times for 3,027 yards, averaging 48.8 yards per punt, with 40.3% of his kicks landing inside the 20-yard line. His longest punt traveled an impressive 72 yards, and he has consistently put his team in a favorable position on the field.
The Road to History
Super Bowl LIX presents an opportunity for both Pacheco and Araiza to etch their names into NFL history. The Chiefs aim to become the first team to win three consecutive Super Bowls, a feat never achieved in the Super Bowl era. Pacheco's relentless running style and Araiza's powerful leg will be key components in Kansas City's pursuit of football immortality.
© Getty ImagesAs the countdown to the big game continues, all eyes will be on these two Latino stars who have overcome adversity and carved out impactful roles on one of the most dominant teams in NFL history. If the Chiefs succeed, Pacheco and Araiza will secure another Super Bowl ring and further cement their legacy as key contributors to a historic dynasty.
