Las Vegas Raiders at Los Angeles Chargers: 3 things to watch in Week 4
By Alex Perl
Las Vegas Raiders at Los Angeles Chargers: 3 things to watch in Week 4
Can the Raiders stop Bosa?
The struggles of the Raiders offensive line have been one of the only negatives for a team that has reached 3-0. Something can be said for the injuries, and most of these guys were not even expected to play even a minor role for the team this season, but it is football, and injuries are always a part of it.
With that being said, the Raiders have had their struggles with opposing defenses and the pass rush. The Silver and Black faced one of the league’s best in linebacker T.J. Watt in Week 2 in Pittsburgh, and things did not look too good for the Raiders early on. Fortunately for the Raiders, Watt pulled his hamstring and had to leave the contest early, but when on the field, was completely manhandling the Raiders offensive front.
Joey Bosa, the star defender for the Chargers may not be up to the level of Watt (not many are), but he is still one of the most dangerous blitzing linebackers in all of football. His 1.5 sacks this season are not the true indicator of his talent, constantly facing double teams, and still able to pressure the quarterback.
The Pro Bowl performer in Bosa gives headaches and nightmares to all offensive linemen and quarterbacks alike.
The tall task will largely be on the shoulders of rookie tackle Alex Leatherwood, a daunting task for a rookie or any player in general. The Raiders will have to constantly use double teams to combat the pass rushing of Bosa, using tight end Foster Moreau and fullback Alec Ingold for double teams will almost be non-negotiable. The Raiders must keep an eye on Bosa at all times if they want to taste victory in this one.