Another NFL week is here, which means another Las Vegas Raiders game to brace for. If you’re still reading about this team at this stage of the season, you probably hate yourself just enough to watch all three and a half hours on Sunday. In that case, you’re in the right place—your one-stop shop for injury updates, fantasy tips, betting angles and more. Let’s dive in.
Vibes
The vibes are gone. All that’s left is apathy. Last week’s embarrassing Monday Night Football blowout against the Dallas Cowboys wiped out any lingering hope that the Raiders were trending upward. Worse yet, there aren’t even rookies to get excited about—this coaching staff refuses to play them, despite the season having been a lost cause for more than a month.
And now? We’re stuck watching this incompetent Raiders team face an equally dreadful Cleveland Browns squad. It’s a lose-lose scenario. Either Las Vegas gets embarrassed by a Cleveland team led by Shedeur Sanders—the same quarterback the Raiders passed on multiple times—or they win a meaningless game that only worsens their draft position.
Injury News
The injury report actually breaks in the Raiders’ favor this week. Jonah Laulu (ribs) is expected back, and no new impact players have been ruled out beyond those already on injured reserve. The Browns aren’t so fortunate. Already down to their third-string quarterback, Cleveland may also be without tackle Jack Conklin (knee) and possibly star edge rusher Myles Garrett (illness).
Losing a starting tackle and your premier pass rusher is far from ideal—especially in a game that may hinge on which defense can force the most turnovers and put points on the board.
Related: Shedeur Sanders Will Make Raiders Regret Passing On Him
Fantasy Focus
Both defenses are viable fantasy starters this week. Beyond that, there isn’t much to love. Running backs Ashton Jeanty and Quinshon Judkins may see enough volume to justify a flex spot in deeper leagues, and Brock Bowers still profiles as a low-end TE1—just temper expectations. Otherwise, fantasy options in this matchup are slim.
Gambling Corner
This is a tough game to handicap, as neither team has been trustworthy for bettors all season. The Raiders and Browns are a combined 8–12 against the spread, but Cleveland laying 3.5 at -108 feels like the safer side. It’s difficult to picture Las Vegas beating anyone right now—let alone by more than a field goal.
The under also stands out. At 35.5 points (-102), it matches the profile of an ugly, low-scoring matchup. Take the points, and take the under.
And if you’re looking for one wild-card prop to make an otherwise unwatchable game interesting, “no touchdown scorer” at +3000 offers a tempting sprinkle.
Expectations
Raider Nation shouldn’t expect much from this one. If you have literally anything else to do besides watching this game, do it. Laundry, yardwork, and even a visit to the in-laws will likely be more enjoyable than watching the Raiders and Browns slog it out. The only remotely intriguing angle is the possibility of Maxx Crosby and Myles Garrett chasing a single-game sack record. Beyond that, brace yourself for a steady diet of sacks and punts.
Final Prediction: Raiders 11, Browns 9
*Top Photo: Getty Images