As it turns out, both the Las Vegas Raiders and Los Angeles Chargers still have much to fight for in their Week 18 clash of AFC West rivals.
In the last battle of the 2024 campaign for the Raiders, they will face the Chargers. Losing this game would benefit the team’s draft position, but at what cost? There have been plenty of memorable moments between these two franchises. Last season was the best performance of a Raiders team ever, as they notched 63 points for the first time.
Strangely, that 63-point performance now seems like a distant memory for Raider Nation. 2024 really has been a season for everyone to forget—and that’s putting it lightly. All of the hoopla and ado in the offseason didn’t translate into on-field success. However, the outcome of Sunday’s game could still have significant implications. In addition to their draft position, the Raiders maintain their pride, and it’s undeniable that there’s a strong rivalry between these teams.
For the Chargers, there are playoff ramifications that could affect Jim Harbaugh’s first postseason run in L.A. Given the recent loss by the Pittsburgh Steelers, the Chargers could move up into the fifth seed—that would translate into a matchup with the Houston Texans. Surely that’s better for Harbaugh’s squad than facing the Baltimore Ravens and MVP hopeful Lamar Jackson.
Will Raiders fans show up on Sunday?
Allegiant Stadium hasn’t exactly been a beacon for the “home crowd.” There are reasons for that, some economical, some practical, but what we do know is that unless the Raiders start winning, things will remain the same. Some will argue that a win on Sunday will be “meaningless,” but unless the organization starts to string some victories together, you’re going to see opposing team colors fill the seats in Las Vegas.
Typically, a rivalry game between the Raiders and Chargers provides an exhilarating experience. When you consider that the Chargers could potentially face the Ravens if the Raiders play their cards right, Raider Nation must come out in force. Those numbers, if nothing else, will empower this Raiders team.
Tanking is not always beneficial in the long run…
Many think the most intelligent path to success is earning a high draft pick to invest in the future. However, there are compelling examples that challenge this logic. The Chicago Bears earned the number one overall pick and drafted Caleb Williams. Despite this being the “best rookie quarterback situation possible,” Chicago has still struggled. This isn’t to say Williams is a bust, not at all. The point is that instant success is rare after receiving the No. 1 overall pick.
Regardless of the outcome of a season, maintaining a winning culture is crucial. While he didn’t intentionally lose, Antonio Pierce needs this victory to increase his chances of retaining his job. After a lackluster season, defeating a division rival will showcase Pierce’s strongest skill: motivating men. In 2023, the interim head coach led his team to an unnecessary victory, telling a similar story.
Once again, 2024 was another wasted season, but this one might not have a happy ending. Majority owner Mark Davis wants his largest investment to start producing. The Raiders are Las Vegas’ only unsuccessful professional team of late. Winning this game means a lot more than just decreasing a draft pick. Players do not suit up on Sunday to intentionally lose, and fans should root for the Chargers’ defeat.
*Top Photo: Las Vegas Sun
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