Oakland Raiders Week 10 X-Factors against the Los Angeles Chargers
By Matt Holder
Maxx Crosby
Especially with Arden Key out, the Silver and Black will be relying on Crosby to get some pressure on Philip Rivers. The fourth-round pick has exceeded expectations and has been one of the most consistent pass rushers on the roster.
While he only has two, Mad Maxx is tied for the second-most sacks on the team and one of the players he is tied with, is the aforementioned Key. Thus, if the Eastern Michigan product can’t get after the quarterback, Rivers might have all-night to throw.
Working in Oakland’s favor, Pro Football Focus ranks the Chargers as the third-worst pass blocking team in the league. While pass rush has been an issue for the Raiders, the team hasn’t faced an opponent that is as bad as the Bolts are in pass protection, according to PFF. Crosby needs to take advantage and force 37-year-old Rivers to use his feet, which isn’t the old man’s strong suit anymore.