4 reasons the Las Vegas Raiders will beat the Carolina Panthers in Week 1
Josh Jacobs vs the Panthers rushing defense
Josh Jacobs had a breakout rookie season last year, rushing for 1,150 yards and seven touchdowns in just 13 games. With a more complete offense around him, the running game should be able to open up even more, and Jacobs will have the chance to have an even better sophomore season for the Silver and Black.
While Jacobs was dominant last season, the Panthers had one of the worst rushing defenses in the NFL, allowing 143.5 rushing yards per game. The Panthers have worked to improve their defensive line, adding highly praised rookie Derrick Brown, but it most likely will not be enough to stop Jacobs, especially in a Week 1 matchup.
Expect Jacobs to have around 20 carries in Week 1, and easily surpassing 100 rushing yards in the first game of the season. A healthy Jacobs is one of the best backs in the league, and if the team is smart, they will feed him the ball against Carolina, eating clock, and watching him get off to another fast start to the season.