Las Vegas Raiders at Indianapolis Colts: 3 bold predictions in Week 17

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
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 /
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Dec 5, 2021; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Las Vegas Raiders running back Josh Jacobs (28) is defended by Washington Football Team outside linebacker Cole Holcomb (55) on a 1-yard touchdown run in the second half at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 5, 2021; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Las Vegas Raiders running back Josh Jacobs (28) is defended by Washington Football Team outside linebacker Cole Holcomb (55) on a 1-yard touchdown run in the second half at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /

Las Vegas Raiders at Indianapolis Colts: 3 bold predictions

Bold Prediction #2: Josh Jacobs stays hot

Josh Jacobs has had, to put it lightly, a forgettable 2021. The former first-round pick from Alabama has rushed for just 3.9 yards per carry and has managed to pass the century mark in just one game this season. Jacobs has also lost two costly fumbles this season.

While the offensive line has had its struggles, and in some instances there is just nowhere for Jacobs to go, his style of running has not looked as purposeful this season as it has in the past. It truly was difficult to see a difference between him and Peyton Barber.

During halftime of last week’s win over the Broncos, though, a switch seemed to flip for Jacobs. He was running with the purpose and aggression that made Raiders’ fans fall in love with him during his rookie season. In the second half alone against Denver, Jacobs rushed for 104 yards and led the Raiders to victory.

On Sunday, expect Las Vegas to do their best to ride Jacobs as far as he will take them once again. Since Jacobs was drafted, the Raiders boast an impressive 11-3 record when handing the ball to Jacobs more than 20 times.

Combine these facts with a Colts rush defense that allows the seventh-most yards per carry, and Jacobs should be in for a big day. Look for a repeat performance of surpassing 100 rushing yards.