We’re back with another set of roundtable predictions for this week’s game against the Raiders.
After downing the Chiefs in Brazil, the hype and excitement is real around this Chargers team. Will it all come to a fast end on Monday night, or will Jim Harbaugh and Justin Herbert be able to keep their record perfect through the first two weeks?
Let’s go ahead and see what our writers have to say!
Michael:
It’s hard not to get wrapped up in just how good the Chargers looked against the Chiefs in Brazil.
The Raiders did not win handily against the Patriots and it took a day of airing the ball out from Geno Smith to move the ball as the ground game and rookie back Ashton Jeanty were struggling to click.
If the Raiders have to rely on Smith to win them this game, I don’t see it going well for Las Vegas. The Chargers were locking the Chiefs down outside of a few fluky chunk plays to both Travis Kelce and Hollywood Brown.
I like the Chargers to dominate this game physically and win by at least 10 points. Expect another clean game from left tackle Joe Alt against edhe rusher Maxx Crosby.
Chargers 27, Raiders 17.
Kyle:
After a mighty victory over the Chiefs, the Chargers head into Week 2 well-rested for their tilt against another division rival. While the Chargers came out firing and slinging the rock, I envision the Chargers to be more of the same. The aggressiveness of the Chargers is their strength. Their receiving unit is excellent and Justin Herbert proved (for the umpteenth time) that he can sling it in high-leverage situations. While they can continue their aerial assault, I suspect getting the ground game more involved will be in the cards. They cannot be one dimensional. And both Greg Roman and Jim Harbaugh didn’t build their offense to neglect the rushing attack. Chargers 31, Raiders 17
Jeremy:
The Chargers are well-rested for their matchup against the Raiders after coming home over a week ago from Sao Paulo, but they have a potential trap game coming in Las Vegas. The Chargers’ aggressive offense worked in Brazil against the Chiefs but they may be a little tamer against the Raiders. The team may try to get Omarion Hampton more involved in the run game, which could be a way for the Chargers to chew clock on offense. Ultimately, it won’t be an easy game as any road divisional contest is, but the Chargers can come out on top. Chargers 24, Raiders 17
