The Las Vegas Raiders return to take on the New York Giants following this past week’s tragedy. MetLife Stadium has not been too kind to the Silver and Black, as fans surely know.
We all remember the beatdown involving the New York Jets in 2019 and the last-second miracle in 2020 as well. With the bye week now gone, the Raiders look to strengthen their hold on first place in the AFC West and begin to secure a playoff spot. To do that, three defensive players will need have a major impact on the field today. Let’s take a look.
Maxx Crosby
Maxx Crosby should be able to eat today, as the kids say. Crosby currently leads the Raiders with five sacks, according to Pro Football Reference. He’s been on a tear this season, wreaking havoc on opposing offensive lines through seven games.Â
Crosby is currently graded at 91.4 overall by Pro Football Focus and leads the league with 47 pressures and 19 QB hits. Today, he faces a Giants team that has given up 17 sacks on the season while the Raiders, as a whole, have 18. The chance for Crosby to do more is here, and in a game the Raiders need, Crosby can shine.
Quinton Jefferson
The Giants do not have a potent running game per the numbers, but a lot of that has to do with Saquon Barkley missing the past three games. In addition, Barkley will also miss today’s contest. According to ESPN, the Giants are averaging 89.3 yards per game. Those numbers aren’t exactly hair-raising, but the Raiders are giving up 131.3 yards per game. Today could provide an opportunity for the Raiders to improve in that department, and Jefferson might play a huge part in that.
Jefferson currently has 22 total tackles and two sacks, according to PFR. He could make those numbers jump today. A good game from Jefferson can help the Raiders force the Giants to pass more and open up the pass rush to cause issues.
Cory Littleton
Cory Littleton has been having a resurgent season this year. He currently is second on the team with 61 total tackles and has a couple of instances of coming close to getting his first interception with the Raiders. This week seems like the week to get that first, and maybe, his second one.
Daniel Jones currently has five interceptions and is missing one of his favorite receivers this week. He may look a little more towards his tight ends in Evan Engram and Kyle Rudolph. Littleton was originally signed for his versatility and ability to cover tight ends. If the Raiders can get pressure on Jones and force some ill-advised throws, Littleton can have a big game. Littleton has improved his play this season, and this could be a game in which he shines if he continues performing the way he has.
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*Top Photo: AP Photo/Jeff Roberson
