The Las Vegas Raiders host the Los Angeles Chargers at Allegiant Stadium for the National Football League Week 15 matchup, on Thursday, December 14th, at 10:15 pm.
Las Vegas Raiders
The Las Vegas Raiders are looking to overcome a three-game losing streak. Aidan O’Connell, the Raiders quarterback, has a 63.8% pass completion rate, with 1,365 yards, 4 touchdowns and 7 interceptions.
While those numbers aren’t stellar, O’Connell has shown flashes of promise and will be crucial to the team’s success in this game. Connecting with his receivers, especially in pressure situations, will be a determining factor.
The Raiders’ rushing game, averaging 80.6 yards per game, is led by Josh Jacobs, who has racked up 805 yards and 6 touchdowns. Jacobs’ ability to find gaps in the opponent’s defense and gain important yards will be vital to the team’s offensive balance.
Defensively, the Raiders have been more effective, allowing an average of 19.9 points and 335.1 yards per game. With players like Robert Spillane, who leads with 115 tackles, Maxx Crosby with 13.5 sacks and Tre’von Moehrig with 2 interceptions, the Raiders defense has been a point of strength, capable of putting pressure on opponents and creating turnovers.
Los Angeles Chargers
The Los Angeles Chargers, on the other hand, face a crucial moment in the season, looking to reverse a series of negative results that include defeats in four of their last five games.
Under the leadership of quarterback Justin Herbert, who has shown consistency with a 65.1% pass completion rate, accumulating 3,134 yards, 20 touchdowns and 7 interceptions, the Chargers have the potential to surprise. Herbert, despite facing challenges, has stood out as one of the team’s offensive pillars. The problem is he’s hurt and won’t be playing against the Raiders.
On the offensive aspect, the Chargers also have the significant contribution of Keenan Allen and Joshua Palmer, who together have 1,620 receiving yards and 8 touchdowns.
The ground game, led by Austin Ekeler, averages 96 yards per game, with Ekeler contributing 497 yards and 5 touchdowns. Those numbers reflect an offense capable of creating opportunities and putting pressure on opposing defenses.
Defensively, the Chargers allow an average of 21.7 points and 375.1 yards per game, numbers that indicate areas for improvement. Kenneth Murray Jr., with 100 tackles, Khalil Mack with 15 sacks and Asante Samuel Jr. with 2 interceptions, are highlights that can make a difference.
The team has struggled, especially in away games against AFC West opponents, and has failed to cover the spread in its last four games as an underdog.
Conclusion:
The Las Vegas Raiders, playing at home and with a solid defense, appear to have a slight advantage. The Raiders’ ability to maintain defensive consistency and capitalize on offensive opportunities could be the key to victory. Therefore, I believe in the Las Vegas Raiders’ narrow victory.