Raiders run defense against the Chargers
Despite having two solid running backs on their team, the Chargers rushing game has been less than impressive this season, averaging just 79.4 rushing yards per game, one of the worst in the NFL. The return of Melvin Gordon III a few weeks back actually stunted their production running the ball, as Austin Ekeler was nearly unstoppable early on.
On the other hand, the Raiders have one of the best rushing defenses in the NFL, allowing just 92.5 rushing yards per game, one of the best in the NFL. The Chargers are going to have to rely on throwing the ball in this game, negating one of their best players in Melvin Gordon.
Although the Raiders passing defense is bad, the inability to control the clock could hurt the Chargers, and they will give Derek Carr and the Raiders offense too many attempts with the ball to win the game. This game is going to come down to whichever defense steps up on Thursday night, and the Raiders should be able to stop the Chargers run game.