Las Vegas Raiders X-Factors against the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 15
By Alex Perl
Raiders defensive line must get pressure
The defensive line for the Raiders has been abysmal this year, and while a lot can be accounted for with the play-calling of former defensive coordinator Paul Guenther, this is also the squad Marinelli is in charge of. To be in context how bad this defensive front has been, the Raiders as a team have 15 sacks, while Aaron Donald of the Rams leads the NFL with 12.5 sacks.
The Raiders pass rush has been a focal point of criticism for years now, but with picks invested and money spent, nothing seems to be changing. With Clelin Ferrell out this week, it will be even more difficult for the Raiders to get to Herbert, but to have any chance of victory, they have to get the pass rush going. Maybe with Marinelli onboard calling the plays, things may change?
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This is yet to be seen, but unless Maxx Crosby and company can change their tune, and provide some pressure inside, this is either going to be a nail-biter and shootout, or an obliteration. With the Raiders’ playoff hopes slim as ever right now, the pass rush must come up big on Thursday night, or once again, Las Vegas will be watching the playoffs from the familiar place of home.