Las Vegas Raiders vs. Baltimore Ravens: Game preview and prediction in Week 1

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - SEPTEMBER 21: Quarterback Derek Carr #4 of the Las Vegas Raiders celebrates with tight end Darren Waller #83 after scoring on a 1-yard touchdown reception during the NFL game at Allegiant Stadium on September 21, 2020 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Raiders defeated the Saints 34-24. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - SEPTEMBER 21: Quarterback Derek Carr #4 of the Las Vegas Raiders celebrates with tight end Darren Waller #83 after scoring on a 1-yard touchdown reception during the NFL game at Allegiant Stadium on September 21, 2020 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Raiders defeated the Saints 34-24. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
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Las Vegas Raiders
Dec 13, 2020; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Las Vegas Raiders running back Josh Jacobs (28) runs the ball in the third quarter against the Indianapolis Colts at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Las Vegas Raiders vs. Baltimore Ravens: Game preview and prediction in Week 1

Prediction

The Raiders have been known to shock in primetime before, as they did against the New Orleans Saints last season. Las Vegas will be playing in front of a rowdy crowd in Week 1, one that has been waiting to pour into Allegiant Stadium for a full year, so expect the fans to have an impact in this one as well.

Las Vegas got better on defense, there is no doubt there, and their offense was one of the best in the NFL last season. For Carr and company, they need to utilize their run game early, leaning on Josh Jacobs and Kenyan Drake, before opening it up, attacking this Ravens defense with speed on the outside, and a dominant figure at tight end in Darren Waller.

This is a game that not only the Raiders should win, but also one they have to win, as you are never going to get a Baltimore team this banged up. The Ravens have some serious long-term issues going into the season, and in front of the fans in Week 1, the Raiders will be able to take care of business.

Prediction: Raiders 31, Ravens 24

Schedule