Raider Nation, Monday Night Football is finally upon us! So let’s take a look at what the Ramble crew predicts for the Las Vegas Raiders’ season opener.
So what does our team of writers think about today’s game?
Kobe Gelles, @KobeGelles
The Ravens are burdened by injuries and the Raiders are no different. However, the revamped (and speedy) offensive line pushing Tom Cable’s zone blocking scheme and a defense ready to cause problems puts Las Vegas in a good position to win this game. For the first time in Vegas, the fans get to witness a Raiders win. Raiders 31-28
Mario Tovar, @_MarioTovar
Just when you thought the Raiders had an advantage with the Ravens’ injuries, they lose Richie Incognito. This might end up being a shootout given all the developments surrounding the game. Ravens will edge the Silver and Black in a close one. Ravens 31-28
CJ Errickson, @CJErrickson_NFL
Both teams are facing injuries. Ty’Son Williams is an explosive young back that doesn’t change what the Ravens do offensively at all. In addition, Baltimore has far more depth and a better coaching staff to withstand injuries than Las Vegas. Jon Gruden’s team won’t handle the pressure both internally and along the offensive line. Ravens 28-13
Dalton Blackman, @blackman_dalton
This is one of those games where it’s hard not to feel optimistic about the Raiders. Baltimore is limping into Week 1 and Vegas has typically started strong under Gruden. Raiders 34-27
What about all the injuries to the Ravens?
Cam Archer, @CamArcher
Despite losing their top two tailbacks and arguably their best cornerback, the Ravens are still the odds on favorites to win this game. Given the Raiders’ track record, it’s hard to argue that line of thinking. Perhaps against my better judgement, I am going to roll with the Raiders tonight. Losing Incognito doesn’t truly worry me as much as it does a few of my Ramble colleagues, the defense will be fired up under new coordinator Gus Bradley, and the offense should hum early with a raucous crowd fueling the fire. It won’t be an easy win, but is it ever with the Raiders? Raiders 27-20
Michael Rueda, @wolf2988
I believe with so many injuries on the Ravens combined with the Raiders being overlooked and considered an afterthought, Las Vegas makes a statement. They show up on both sides and win. Raiders 28-10
Fans at Allegiant will make a difference…
Anthony Grant, @_A_Grant
Raider Nation is pumped for the first game at Allegiant Stadium with fans. The Silver and Black come in with a lot of prove on both sides of the ball, the Ravens come in a little banged up with Super Bowl aspirations. Both quarterbacks will put on a spectacle for viewers; but in the end, the home field advantage, a few big plays from the Las Vegas offense, and a defense that looks more disciplined than last year’s nightmare will push them to 1-0 for the season. Raiders 30-27
Devon DeLeon, @DevonTDeLeon
In recent years, the Silver and Black have started off strong, and I picture the trend continuing into 2021. This defense looked undeniably quicker and the new additions get the chance to prove that this isn’t the same old Raiders defense we have been used to. Stopping Lamar Jackson will easily be the biggest priority, but the recent injuries to the Ravens’ running backs will open up opportunities for the Silver and Black. Keep an eye on John Simpson making the start over the injured Incognito as well. It will be close, but I see Las Vegas sneaking away with a win that will raise eyebrows. Raiders 28-24
Major Loss For Raiders With OG Richie Incognito Out On Monday Night
*Top Photo: Chase Stevens/Las Vegas Review-Journal