Another week, another Las Vegas Raiders showdown. Here’s your all-in-one guide for injury updates, fantasy tips, betting insights, and everything else you need before kickoff. Let’s dive in.
Vibes
The Raiders finally have some momentum after knocking off the Titans. The problem? Tennessee is so bad it’s hard to tell if Las Vegas has actually turned a corner. We’ll find out soon enough. The Chiefs, fresh off a statement win over the Lions, look like their old dominant selves again—and the return of Rashee Rice from suspension only adds fuel to the fire.
Injury News
The Raiders’ injury report isn’t offering much good news. Tight end Brock Bowers and receiver Jakobi Meyers both missed practice with knee injuries, and neither is expected to suit up this week. Meyers’ absence comes amid swirling trade rumors, which might explain his time on the sidelines.
As for the Chiefs, rookie left tackle Josh Simmons is out—though the reason remains a personal, confidential matter.
Fantasy Focus
With Brock Bowers and Jakobi Meyers sidelined, Tre Tucker suddenly carries real WR1 upside this week. Tight end Michael Mayer could also see a bump in targets, making him a sneaky low-end TE1 play—especially in PPR leagues.
On the Chiefs’ side, Rashee Rice is worth a start right out of the gate, particularly in deeper formats. Kansas City’s receiving corps is thin, and Rice’s speed could spell trouble for the Raiders’ secondary.
And for daily fantasy players, Travis Kelce is primed for a big outing. He’s historically torched the Raiders, and Rice’s return should open up plenty of room for Kelce to work underneath.
Gambling Corner
Forget the idea of a Raiders upset—they simply don’t have the firepower to run with Kansas City. The real question is whether they can cover the 11.5-point spread. History says no. In their four losses, Las Vegas has been outscored by nearly 16 points per game, and when things go south, they go fast.
If you’re looking for value, a couple of player props stand out: Travis Kelce anytime touchdown at +145 and Tre Tucker to score at +240.
Expectations
Raider Nation can only hope for a competitive showing, but history suggests a repeat of the Washington game: big plays piling up until the deficit feels impossible. With the Chiefs firing on all cylinders lately, Las Vegas would be lucky to keep this one within 20 points.
Final Prediction: Raiders 13, Chiefs 31
Related: Check Out Our Latest AFC West Power Rankings
*Top Photo: Ramble Illustration/Getty Images