The Las Vegas Raiders will head off to Denver, their first matchup of the season. It should be noted that the Broncos have never beat the Raiders since moving to Las Vegas. Will the Broncos finally end the winning streak this year?
Although it has been a slightly bumpy start to the season, the playoffs are not out of reach for Sin City. Every week, it seems like one side of the ball is struggling in one aspect. This has been evident in the rushing attack, pass defense, and numerous other areas. With an unhealthy Maxx Crosby and a likely traded Davante Adams, some players will need to step up this week.
Raiders Offensive Tackle Kolton Miller
Thankfully, one of the Raiders’ best first-round picks in the past couple decades is still playing. He has been underrated thus far in his career, and he’s never received a Pro Bowl nod. However, many fans know the impact he has on the continuity of the offensive line. Whether it’s injuries or age, Miller has clearly struggled to be the player he once was.
He currently has a 66.0 Pro Football Focus grade and has allowed more sacks than wanted so far. Given the current quarterback situation, Miller needs to improve his protection. This week, he faces the second-ranked team for sacks, with 16 on the season.
Cornerback Jack Jones
Jack Jones has not lived up to expectations so far, not having a single interception and not even starting last week. Despite that, he is still a ballhawk who knows where to be when the ball is in the air. Playing against rookie quarterback Bo Nix provides Jones with an excellent opportunity to showcase his abilities.
It appears that he has handled the benching professionally and carried himself the way he should. Will Antonio Pierce start him this week, or will he be a depth piece moving forward? Sunday will answer this, but regardless, Jones needs to seize his opportunities. Without a doubt, 18 tackles and three pass deflections is not terrible, but Jones surely could be better.
Running Back Alexander Mattison
“Next man up mentality” is something that Antonio Pierce constantly preaches to his team. It is important that depth is at every position, and this week it will be needed at running back. Mattison has exceeded expectations from fans and the media so far, without a doubt. He has been efficient, coming off of a 12-yard carry game last week against Cleveland.
With this in mind, Mattison will need to maintain his efficiency with more carries because of a Zamir White injury. There may be a mixture of Ameer Abdullah or even Dylan Laube. No matter what the starter will be, Mattison and he need to perform.
*Top Photo: AP Photo/ Rick Scuteri
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