Las Vegas Raiders: JustBlogBaby Staff predictions for the 2020 NFL season

OAKLAND, CALIFORNIA - NOVEMBER 07: Clelin Ferrell #96 of the Oakland Raiders celebrates after sacking quarterback Philip Rivers #17 of the Los Angeles Chargers in the fourth quarter at RingCentral Coliseum on November 07, 2019 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images)
OAKLAND, CALIFORNIA - NOVEMBER 07: Clelin Ferrell #96 of the Oakland Raiders celebrates after sacking quarterback Philip Rivers #17 of the Los Angeles Chargers in the fourth quarter at RingCentral Coliseum on November 07, 2019 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images) /
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Raiders GM Mike Mayock
Raiders GM Mike Mayock (Photo by Don Juan Moore/Getty Images) /

Las Vegas Raiders: JustBlogBaby Staff predictions for the 2020 NFL season

Pete Hernandez, Contributor

New city, new weapons on both sides of the ball, and new expectations? Many are intrigued by the additions to the roster, with the speed on offense and improved depth (especially at the linebacker position) on defense. Yet, in a division headlined by the Super Bowl champions, the path to the postseason might come via a Wild Card spot (consensus odds have the Raiders between five or nine wins).

I’m excited about the additions of Henry Ruggs III and Bryan Edwards at the receiver position. Combined with Josh Jacobs, Darren Waller, and Hunter Renfrow in year two, playing with that offensive line, this offense can be incredible, so long as Jon Gruden’s play-calling can maximize its potential, with Derek Carr at the helm for year three.

The defense, especially that young secondary, will need to make a leap this season to ensure Las Vegas keeps games within reach. Looking at their opponents, if the Raiders can endure the tough slate of games at the onset, they’ll be rewarded with a favorable stretch to close the season, and very well could sneak into the playoffs in a Wild Card spot.

Record prediction: 9-7