The Las Vegas Raiders open the 2026 regular season Sunday at home when they host the Miami Dolphins. Kickoff is set for 1:25 p.m. PT. Here are five keys to watch:
Offensive rhythm:
The Raiders need to improve dramatically on offense. That’s why new head coach Klint Kubiak was hired. Getting the offense humming in this game is important to establish a positive trend forward both in the running and passing games.
Get to Malik Willis:
The Raiders need to establish a pass-rush beyond star Maxx Crosby and
they need to do it quickly. Willis, the Dolphins’ new starting quarterback, can move and he can hurt defenses with his legs. But he can also get rattled. So, putting constant heat on him is vital.
Wide receiver play:
There has been a lot of questions about this unit all offseason and now into the regular season. Can Tre Tucker, Jalen Nailor and Jack Bech produce enough help for star tight end Brock Bowers?
Offensive line:
This is a major key for this game and every game. The Raiders’ offensive line was brutal last season and was a major reason why the offense stunk so badly. Kolton Miller is healthy at left tackle and big-money free-agent signing, center Tyler Liinderbaum is a great anchor to the unit. Still, there is some youth on this line and it has to show it’s ready to be a positive part of the team.
Run defense:
This has been a problem and it was shaky in the preseason. Miami’s De”Von Achane can be a game-breaking player, so the Raiders really have to play tight against the run Sunday.
