The Las Vegas Raiders, 1-0, visit the Los Angeles Chargers, 0-1, Sunday. Here are five keys to victory:
Offensive line dominance:
A major reason why the Raiders are 1-0 after a 27-13 home win over the Miami Dolphins on Sunday was because of the offensive line. Last season, of course, the offensive line was a big reason why the Raiders were woeful on offense. That wasn’t the case last week. The unit opened big holes in the running game on a regular basis and didn’t allow a sack. The Chargers have a strong
defense. This will be a big test. But if Las Vegas’ offensive line holds up again, a victory is very possible.
Ashton Jeanty:
The second-year running back has a huge Week 1. He had 29 touches (23 carries and six catches) on the Raiders’ 68 offensive plays. He accounted for 147 of the Raiders’ 290 scrimmage yards. He wore down Miami late in the game. That sounds like a formula coach Klint Kubiak would like to repeat this week.
Stop the run:
The Raiders did a nice job of holding Miami running back De”Von Achane to just 36 yards rushing. They must do that against the Chargers’ Omarion Hampton. He is a load and he can make big plays. Las Vegas has to keep that to a minimum.
Pressure Herbert:
The Raiders had five sacks and constantly pressured Malik Willis last week. Maxx Crosby and Kwity Paye were relentless. The opportunity for another big pressure day is available this week. The Chargers had trouble protecting Justin Herbert last week. If the Raiders can force Herbert into making mistakes that will go a long way toward an upset win.
Better receiver production:
Las Vegas receivers Jalen Nailor, Tre Tucker, Jack Bech and Malik Benson combined for nine catches for 83 yards and a touchdown. That, of course, isn’t good enough. That production must improve this week.
