Oakland Raiders Week 13 X-Factors against the Kansas City Chiefs
By Matt Holder
Trayvon Mullen
The last time these teams met, the Chiefs picked apart the Raiders secondary with 436 yards and four touchdowns through the air. Unfortunately for Oakland that was without wide receiver Tyreek Hill, and reigning MVP Pat Mahomes is more than capable of replicating his week two effort with Hill back in the lineup.
On the other hand, that game occurred before Trayvon Mullen was thrust into a starting role and he has been a significant upgrade to the defense.
When targeted the rookie has allowed 288 receiving yards and a passer rating of 84.1. Mullen is arguably the best cornerback on the roster and as each week passes, it looks like he’s becoming more comfortable in defensive coordinator Paul Guenther’s system. As great as the Clemson product has been, this Sunday will be his biggest test by far.
It’s almost like Mullen is back in college and has passed all of his midterms, but the daunting final exam that significantly affects his grade is awaiting in the form of Kansas City. On Sunday, he has an opportunity to make a name for himself and become one of the best young defensive backs in the league.
However, the question is, is he ready?