Finishing strong down the stretch
Should Las Vegas hold their own through their second matchup with the Chiefs in Week 11, the Raiders have the opportunity to take advantage of a softer schedule down the stretch. After going on the road in Weeks 12 and 13, Las Vegas sees the Indianapolis Colts (with an older Philip Rivers) whom they bested last year, the Los Angeles Chargers (0-2 against the Raiders in 2019), and the rebuilding Miami Dolphins in Week 16.
The season finale again takes place in Denver, but if the Raiders can instead come out on top in the mile-high city, they could potentially look at a four-game win streak to end the season, maybe even more. After weathering a tough stretch at the beginning, they could be rewarded at the finish line.
With new additions on both sides of the ball, the Las Vegas Raiders are a much more skilled team than last year. The schedule ahead is not a cakewalk, but it’s not an obstacle either. If this roster takes another step in the right direction, the Raiders could turn their schedule into an above .500 record by year’s end, maybe even a playoff appearance.