The Las Vegas Raiders are coming off of another heartbreaker and, at this point, are reaching desperation. As the rival Denver Broncos head to the Death Star, it will be a battle of two underwhelming teams. The Raiders will attempt to claw their way back into the win column, but they will need some solid performances to do so. Here are three bold predictions that will help the Silver and Black avoid an 0-4 start.
Raiders’ Bold Prediction No. 1 – Mack Hollins continues his success
Third and Mack Hollins? Third and Mack Hollins, yes, you read that correctly. Derek Carr has found a new safety blanket, and no, it isn’t superstar Davante Adams. Over the last two weeks, Hollins has accumulated 13 receptions for 224 yards and a touchdown. With Hunter Renfrow out for a second straight week, it’s safe to assume that production isn’t going anywhere.
Hollins will not only continue his success at home against Denver, but he will also lead the team in targets, receptions, and yards. Again, Carr is going to give Hollins plenty of opportunities and help put him over 100 yards for the second straight week. The duo might even sprinkle in a touchdown or two if the red zone offense starts clicking.
Raiders’ Bold Prediction No. 2 – Josh McDaniels unleashes Josh Jacobs
Gone are the days of the run-first Las Vegas Raiders, and Raider Nation is not happy. Josh McDaniels, however, hears the chatter. McDaniels also sees Josh Jacobs’ 4.6 yards per carry as his highest since his rookie season. The Broncos have yet to allow over 90 yards rushing in a game this season. Unfortunately, that’s all about to change. The Raiders are going to finally establish the run game as Jacobs rumbles for 20-plus carries and 100-plus yards in Week 4.
Jacobs will also see some goal line work as he punches in his first score of the season. If the Raiders’ ground attack thrives against a stout Denver defensive line, it might just be the spark this team has been looking for.
Raiders’ Bold Prediction No. 3 – Chander Jones tallies some sacks
It’s Russell Wilson’s week, and Chandler Jones knows all about that. Throughout his time in Arizona, Jones sacked Wilson 16.5 times, his most on a single QB. The rivalry, paired with a frustrating start to the season, should be fuel for the fire. Not only is Jones going to get to the quarterback this week, but he is also going to record a team-high three sacks. In three games, Wilson has been sacked nine times, including seven in the last two weeks. The entire Raiders’ defensive line should be licking their chops, especially the Jones and Maxx Crosby edge duo. The defense will need to look half-decent against a stagnant Broncos offense if the Silver and Black want a shot at this one.
*Top Photo: Heidi Fang/Las Vegas Review-Journal
