5 realistic expectations for the Oakland Raiders in Week 5

CARSON, CA - DECEMBER 31: Derek Carr #4 of the Oakland Raiders throws a pass during the first half of the game against the Los Angeles Chargers at StubHub Center on December 31, 2017 in Carson, California. (Photo by Stephen Dunn/Getty Images)
CARSON, CA - DECEMBER 31: Derek Carr #4 of the Oakland Raiders throws a pass during the first half of the game against the Los Angeles Chargers at StubHub Center on December 31, 2017 in Carson, California. (Photo by Stephen Dunn/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA – SEPTEMBER 30: GareonConley #21 of the Oakland Raiders intercepts a pass intended for Antonio Callaway #11 of the Cleveland Browns and runs in back for a touchown at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on September 30, 2018 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
OAKLAND, CA – SEPTEMBER 30: GareonConley #21 of the Oakland Raiders intercepts a pass intended for Antonio Callaway #11 of the Cleveland Browns and runs in back for a touchown at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on September 30, 2018 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)

Mulitple INTs by the defense

The Raiders secondary has long been an Achilles Heel for the team, as they have had a revolving door at the cornerback, and safety positions. However, in 2017, they selected Gareon Conley with their first round pick, an finally healthy, he is starting to look like the CB1 this team has been lacking since Nnamdi Asomugha left.

Conley had a pick-six last weekend against the Cleveland Browns, and struggling safety Reggie Nelson also added an interception for good measure. This team struggled mightily to get interceptions last season, but were able to get to rookie Baker Mayfield last weekend, and capitalize on some bad throws.

This week, they take on Philip Rivers, who has never been shy about taking shots down field. That should lead to the Raiders having a couple of opportunities to get some interceptions, which could turn this game on it’s head. They have the talent, especially at cornerback, to force some mistakes on Sunday.

Schedule