The Las Vegas Raiders offense has been averaging 29 points per game during their three-game winning streak. In order to beat the Los Angeles Rams in Week 14 and extend their winning streak, their offense needs to keep scoring. The following three Raiders offensive players will need to perform well against the Rams.
Raiders vs. Rams: X-Factor No. 1 – Mack HollinsÂ
Mack Hollins? Yes, Hollins must contribute more to the passing game than he has. This is so because the Rams will try to stop Davante Adams by doing all in their power. Jalen Ramsey will probably cover Adams, and the Rams’ cornerbacks are injured, so Hollins will have an opportunity to play well. Hollins won’t have numerous defenders thrown at him, so he’ll have to succeed in one-on-one battles. Derion Kendrick, a sixth-round rookie, will most likely be his opponent. And Hollins will have a great game if he can win those matchups. Hollins may open early and frequently, so Derek Carr needs to keep an eye on him.
Raiders vs. Rams: X-Factor No. 2 – Kolton MillerÂ
Khalil Mack overpowered Kolton Miller in their first meeting, but Miller shut Mack down in the Raiders’ Week 13 victory. He must maintain his strong play this week when he takes on Leonard Floyd. He is the Rams’ top defensive performer in terms of sacks and tackles for loss despite the team’s poor season. Floyd is the Rams’ only real pass-rushing threat now that Aaron Donald is likely out due to injury. That means Carr will have plenty of time to exploit the Rams’ defense. That’s if Miller can stop Floyd. Miller is also a key contributor to the Raiders’ resurgence in the running game. Follow Miller behind run plays, and good things happen. It’s time to lock things down once again.
Raiders vs. Rams: X-Factor No. 3 – Derek Carr
The Raiders will need Carr to keep up his strong play if they want to extend their winning streak. Donald, the Rams’ best defensive player, is injured, and their secondary is mediocre. As he did when he threw a pick-six against the Chargers, Carr will need to be a smart passer and not give the opposing defense some life. We have seen him make crucial and excellent throws, but he will also need to play well throughout the entire game. That’s especially true if the Raiders want to keep their playoff hopes alive. Carr has to win now or never because the Rams are a bad team, simply put.
*Top Photo: WSN Betting