Las Vegas Raiders: 5 challenges team could face in 2020
Las Vegas Raiders: 5 challenges team could face in 2020
Stumbling out of the gate
Las Vegas’ bye falls in Week 6, and the argument can be made that starting strong out of the gate can make or break the Raiders season. In the first five weeks, the Raiders face the new-look Panthers, Drew Brees and the stacked Saints offense, the Patriots with Cam Newton, the Bills, and their respectable defense, and finally the reigning champion Chiefs.
The likelihood of going undefeated in the first five games is slim, but a few upsets here and there can put Las Vegas in prime position to make a run once they come back from their bye. Or…a rough start out the stretch could leave the Raiders way behind in a run for a playoff spot.
Ultimately, Jon Gruden has to have his team ready out the gate as if they were trying to make a playoff push down the stretch, having that mindset will be crucial. Teams can get hot down the stretch, but Las Vegas shouldn’t want to take the chance. Start out strong, and then finish strong.