Las Vegas Raiders at Los Angeles Chargers: 3 players to watch in Week 9

Nov 1, 2020; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Browns defensive tackle Larry Ogunjobi (65) tackles Las Vegas Raiders running back Josh Jacobs (28) during the first quarter at FirstEnergy Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott Galvin-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 1, 2020; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Browns defensive tackle Larry Ogunjobi (65) tackles Las Vegas Raiders running back Josh Jacobs (28) during the first quarter at FirstEnergy Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott Galvin-USA TODAY Sports /
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Johnathan Abram is the key to this Raiders defense (Photo by Jamie Sabau/Getty Images)
Johnathan Abram is the key to this Raiders defense (Photo by Jamie Sabau/Getty Images) /

Las Vegas Raiders at Los Angeles Chargers: 3 players to watch in Week 9

Johnathan Abram

Johnathan Abram came back in Week 8 after a near encounter with COVID-19, and he showed his invaluable worth upon his return. After missing the team’s Week 7 loss against Tampa Bay, Abram showed why he is the Alpha on this defense, flying all over the field and making big plays.

Whether it was blitzing or in man coverage, he was all over the field. Abram, along with linebacker Nick Kwiatkoski, looked like the undeniable stars of the defensive show this past Sunday. With Abram leading the secondary, maybe it is possible this defense can turn the corner under defensive coordinator Paul Guenther.

Only time will tell in terms of that, but the Raiders have an opportunity to make a real statement against a Chargers team that loves to throw. Herbert has thrown for over 300 yards in three of his six starts this season, and has at least three touchdown passes in each of the last four games.