The Indianapolis Colts are heading into Allegiant Stadium with a top-three defense in the NFL. What does this mean for the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 14?
The ‘Horseshoe’ also has a pretty good offense led by a familiar face in quarterback Philip Rivers. All round the Colts offense will be a test for the Raiders’ defense with good wide receivers and a flashy running game. Will Raiders defensive coordinator Paul Guenther be up to the task?
Also, tomorrow’s matchup has huge playoff implications for both squads, with that being said and here are three predictions.
1. Henry Ruggs III has his best game as a pro
Rookie wide receiver Henry Ruggs III has struggled in 2020, but in the last few games, he’s finally starting to get more involved. Last weekend’s last-second win against the New York Jets really boosted the chemistry between him and quarterback Derek Carr. Prediction: Six catches on eight targets, 130+ yards, and a touchdown.
Related: Week 14 Path to the Playoffs: Raiders Will Make It If…
2. The Raiders defense steps up and forces turnovers
The Raiders defense has been forcing more turnovers lately. Phillip Rivers has nine interceptions and is playing on an injured foot this week. If the defensive line can apply some pressure and keep Rivers uncomfortable throughout the game, they can definitely force some turnovers Sunday. Prediction: Three forced turnovers by way of two interceptions and one forced fumble.
3. Derek Carr has a big day
Carr doesn’t throw interceptions a whole lot, even though he’s going up against a top defense, I expect him to have a monster day Sunday. It’s his time to shine and prove he’s a top ten quarterback and show up in big games. This could easily be the biggest game of his career thus far. Can he take the Raiders to the playoffs? We will see soon enough, and it starts with beating the Colts. Prediction: 26-37, 350+ yards, and four touchdowns.
Final Prediction: Raiders win, 38-34.
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*Top Photo: Associated Press/Noah K. Murray