Most predictions and odds out there have the Chargers beating the Raiders. But that doesn't mean anything is for sure. Far from it actually. There are plenty of factors that offer reasons to be optimistic if you're the Raiders that they could be 2-0 and leave the Chargers 0-2 after this Sunday. Here are a few.
1. LA in disarray
The Raiders are surely not taking anything for granted, but with the way the lowly Cardinals handled the Chargers in Week one, it’s obvious this team can be had. Much like the Raiders vs the Dolphins, the Cardinals never trailed in the game. And the Chargers were outplayed in every facet of the game. Including better rushing attack, better QB play, better numbers for the top receivers, more first downs both rushing and passing, better third-down
efficiency, and turnovers. Literally everything. That’s not to say the Charger won’t bounce back, but once weaknesses are exposed, it opens the door for others to follow.
2. Ladd McConkey injury status
One thing that seemed to be working for the Chargers offense was the chemistry between Justin Herbert and second-year receiver Ladd McConkey. Then McConkey left the game with a rib injury and his status for the game is in doubt after missing the first two practices this week. That’s a big loss for the Chargers if he can’t go. And one fewer headache for the Raiders.
3. Chargers’ interior Oline play
The Chargers had some ugly guard play in the opener.They went platoon at left guard between Kayode Awosika and Trey Pipkins III. Both had plenty of blown assignments, holding penalties, and false starts that stalled drives. Meanwhile right guard Cole Strange allowed five pressures.As for the center spot, rookie second round pick Jake Slaughter is starting because of the loss of veteran center Tyler Biadasz suffering a season-ending injury. Slaughter held up well overall, but had two costly penalties during a sequence late in the fourth quarter that ultimately left the offense stranded in a third-and-30 situation.
This article originally appeared on Raiders Wire: 3 reasons for optimism for Raiders Week 2 vs Chargers
