A big victory on Monday afternoon against the Cleveland Browns kept the slim playoff hopes of the Las Vegas Raiders alive.
The defense played a major role and helped put the team in a position to grab the win. However, the defense did not generate a lot of pressure but was able to keep the game in front of them and did not give away a big play. In this game against the Denver Broncos, the defense has another opportunity to showcase and keep the playoff hopes alive. With that being said, these are my three defensive players who need to shine this week.
Maxx Crosby
Crosby just got voted into his first Pro Bowl and he let his emotions show. He has been nonstop this season and has been a key for this defense. This season, Crosby has five sacks, with three of them coming against the Broncos. Regrettably, he has not recorded a sack since then. This is the perfect time for Crosby to regain the sacks and help carry the defense to a stout performance.
Cory Littleton
The big free-agent acquisition from a year ago has had an up and down season. Littleton, per ESPN, has 97 total tackles, which is good for third on the team. He has been in the right place at the right time at different intervals. Unfortunately, his play in recent weeks has been subpar. This was especially the case last week when he was embarrassed a couple of times on a scoring drive. The chance to redeem himself comes tomorrow against the Broncos, and with injuries affecting the defense, Littleton needs to show up and make some plays to secure some wins.
Trevon Moehrig
The rookie second-round pick has been a welcome sight for the Raiders as he has been a steady performer throughout the season. He has rarely been out of position and has had many plays where he has made breaks on the ball. His only interception this season, Moehrig, was against the Broncos, and another one for him this week could lead to securing the victory for the Raiders.
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*Top Photo: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports