3 Bold Predictions for the Las Vegas Raiders in 2022 Week 9

3 Bold Predictions for the Las Vegas Raiders in 2022 Week 9

Bold Prediction #2: The defense has no quick-fix

While the Raiders’ defense only gave up 24 points last week, their actual performance was much, much worse than what the box score may suggest.

Other than an opening drive three-and-out that was forced, the Las Vegas defense offered no semblance of resistance against a banged-up Saints offense led by Andy Dalton.

Despite being without two starting wide receivers Michael Thomas and Jarvis Landry, Andy Dalton had no issue whatsoever moving the ball up and down the field against the Raiders. Several times, it appeared that the Raiders’ defense had forgotten that Alvin Kamara, New Orleans’ best player, was allowed to touch the football.

When it comes to Trevor Lawrence and Travis Etienne Jr. this week, it is not likely to get any better. Regardless of Lawrence’s constant overthrows and head-scratching decisions in his second year, the Raiders’ defense is somewhat of a cure-all for struggling quarterbacks.

Missing the only playmaker in the secondary in Nate Hobbs, as well as a nonexistent pass rus, has made the Las Vegas defense into the league’s worst unit. Especially against the pass. Sans Maxx Crosby, it is hard to see a Raiders’ defender that an opponent would even need to prepare for.

While the Raiders’ offense will get back on track this week, the defense will continue to struggle mightily. Take the over.