The Kansas City Chiefs find themselves in a must-win situation against the Oakland Raiders in Week 13. It seems they will be shorthanded in the backfield once again without Damien Williams.

According to ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter, Williams has been ruled out for this pivotal showdown with the Raiders:

The Chiefs have ruled out RB Damien Williams.

The absence of Williams has left a rather notable void in the Chiefs' backfield since suffering a rib injury during the 24-17 victory over the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 11. It appears the extra week of rest was still not enough time to help him fully recover. As a result, the offense may have to rely on a committee to do their bidding in the run game.

With Williams out, the Chiefs will once again look to running backs LeSean McCoy and Darrell Williams to pick up the slack. Meanwhile, running back Darwin Thompson could also serve as a complementary option for head coach Andy Reid.

Although Williams' absence deals a blow to the offense in such an important game, it is no secret that most of Kansas City's success in the 2019 NFL season has come on the arm of quarterback Patrick Mahomes. Wide receiver Tyreek Hill was able to take full advantage of the extra time off to nurse the hamstring injury he suffered in Los Angeles.

The Chiefs have had the bye week to prepare for this crucial AFC West showdown with the Raiders. If they are going to end the final stretch of the 2019 NFL season on a high note, it must begin by securing the division in Week 13.