3 Raiders Defenders Who Need To Shine Vs. Broncos

The Las Vegas Raiders are reeling right now. Two straight losses and an email scandal led to Join Gruden resigning. The season goes on, and they need to turn their attention to the Denver Broncos or risk dropping to 3-3 and maybe losing the season.

This week, the team will need to rely on veteran leadership and key players to help steer this team in the right direction. The following three players will be key not just today but for the rest of the season.

Perryman has arguably been the most consistent player on defense aside from Maxx Crosby this season. He currently leads the Raiders in tackles per ESPN with 60 total. The linebacker has delivered some big hits for Las Vegas despite being acquired late in the preseason. With everything that has happened over the last week for the team, a big performance from Perryman would help set a tone and possibly lead to a victory.

Well, Ngakoue was one of the big free-agent signings and brought much hype. Nevertheless, the results have been decent at best.

The defensive end has been around in plays, and his effort is unquestionable. However, he did not register his first sack until this past game against the Chicago Bears. He had registered two sacks by the game’s end, but it came with a roughing-the-passer penalty.

That particular penalty came with the Bears having a third and long and swung momentum in their favor. Ngakoue has the team’s respect as he was voted a team captain so players will look to him. His play this week against a Denver offensive line that has given up seven sacks in the past two games can spark a team sputtering at the moment.

Philon’s acquisition flew under the radar, but he has made an impact on the team. Heading into today’s game, Philon has 11 total tackles, two sacks, and three tackles for loss, per ESPN. When you watch the tape, you see him flashing when he is on the field and making plays. The Broncos’ run game has been solid this season, but a lot of it came against some less than stellar defenses, and their last two games have shown they can be slowed down. 

Philon can wreak some havoc, and with Johnathan Hankins possibly dealing with an injury, Philon could see his role increased. Today’s game will likely set the tone for the rest of the year. Philon stepping up for the Raiders could help relieve some of the drama and problems that have arisen in such a short time.

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