All aboard the Josh Jacobs train. As long as the Raiders have him they will have a chance versus the Chargers. Oakland will need Jacobs to help neutralize the Chargers aggressive ends.
The offense will also need Derek Carr to once again make crucial throws in tight spots on third down and in the red zone. That gives the Raiders a punchers chance.
Expect more Zay Jones at receiver too. We saw him get worked in the offense slowly over the past few weeks. He offers fresh legs the Raiders need.
Marcell Ateman should also see some time if he makes plays like last game.
Of course, Tyrell Williams and Darrren Waller have alternated as the Raiders No. 1 targets. That should continue.
Otherwise, the Raiders will need Trent Brown if Derek Carr hopes to throw deep. Brown left last week’s game early but he and center Rodney Hudson returned to practice this week. Getting Hudson back is critical too as the Raiders are much better in blitz pickup and double teams with Hudson.
Chargers edges Joey Bosa and Melvin Ingram are among the league’s most dynamic rushing duos.
On defense, the Raiders could also be without corner Daryl Worley. Worley took his lumps but made a dynamic interception. He is also practice this week despite an injury in last week’s game.
The Silver and Black better prepare for anything. Mike Williams and Keenan Allen could easily have a day. Don’t forget Hunter Henry and Austin Ekeler have also come up with big catches for the Bolts. Plus, the Chargers are getting Melvin Gordon back to speed.
L.A. is still banged up. Both teams are Fighting for their seasons in a tight AFC West. Cliches aside this should be a rivalry game where both teams will fight their asses off for a victory.
Don’t expect this game to be particularly well executed. Thursday Night Football is infamous for poor games due to the short turnaround. The difference in this game could easily be what team is healthier and which coach does more with less preparation time. The good thing is these teams know each other well enough already that they don’t need a full week for preparation.
Oakland’s other Puncher’s advantage is the home field. The baseball field is gone and there are only a few more home games left before the Raiders leave Oakland for good after this season.
That means the Coliseum should get rocking for their last Thursday Night Football. That advantage should not get overlooked versus a talented and underachieving rival.
i will be in attendance and I am looking forward to taking in Oakland and the Mecca of the Silver and Black one last time. Most of all, I’m looking forward to beating the Chargers.
