Las Vegas Raiders vs Los Angeles Chargers: 3 key matchups in Week 18
Casey Hayward Jr. vs Keenan Allen
Casey Hayward Jr. was a name mentioned in key matchups last week against the Indianapolis Colts, and he performed admirably.
The task this week though will be much tougher. Hayward will be facing off against his former teammate in Keenan Allen. The Charger receiver is one of the best and most underrated wide receivers in all of football, and his route running throws off nearly every opposing cornerback as his sure hands and turn on a dime ability make him nearly unstoppable.
Opposing quarterback Justin Herbert has a slew of receiving options, and two 1,000 yard receivers in Allen and Mike Williams at his disposal. However, Allen is the best of the bunch, and Herbert will always look to get his five-time Pro Bowl receiver the ball, even when blanketed in coverage.
With a depleted secondary, Hayward will not only captain this young and decimated unit, but he will be the driving force in stopping not only Allen but the dangerous passing attack led by Herbert.
Keep an eye on this matchup, as it could make or break the Raiders playoff hopes in this regular-season finale Sunday night.