Raiders vs Los Angeles Chargers: 3 bold predictions in Week 18

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Dec 5, 2021; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Washington Football Team running back Antonio Gibson (24) is defended by Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby (98) in the first half at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /

Las Vegas Raiders vs Los Angeles Chargers: 3 bold predictions in Week 18

Raiders pass rush gets four sacks

The Raiders defense is among the league leaders in playing zone coverage, and expect more of the same Sunday night. Part of the reason has been due to lack of personnel capable of playing more man coverage, whether due to injuries or COVID-related absences as we close out the season. The bright spot has been Las Vegas’ pass rush, led by pro bowler Maxx Crosby and the superb free agency addition of Yannick Ngakoue.

Las Vegas secondary won’t contain Justin Herbert through the air, but the Raiders’ pass rush can make Herbert earn every completion. In their last meeting, Justin Herbert was sacked twice courtesy of Darius Philon for a loss of 10 yards. Sunday night, Las Vegas will have to double that effort.

The Raiders pass rush will bring down Herbert four times on the night, and while Herbert might find his receivers through the air, he’ll have to earn every completion while accounting for Crosby and Ngakoue on the outside.

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