Raiders vs Chargers 2022 Week 13: Key matchups to watch

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INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA – SEPTEMBER 11: Cornerback Rock Ya-Sin #26 of the Las Vegas Raiders attempts to tackle running back Austin Ekeler #30 of the Los Angeles Chargers during the first half at SoFi Stadium on September 11, 2022, in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images) /

Las Vegas Raiders vs Chargers 2022 Week 13: Key matchups to watch

Defense

Austin Ekeler vs Raiders run defense

The injuries to Keenan Allen and Mike Williams over the course of this season have only elevated the importance of Austin Ekeler to the Chargers’ offense. His seven rushing touchdowns this season is only two less than Jacobs, but many understand that Ekeler’s impact is not limited to the run game. If anything, he is more dangerous as a pass-catching tailback that does damage in yards after the catch.

Heading into Week 13, Ekeler leads all running backs with 497 receiving yards with an average of 6.2 yards per reception. He ranks third among all Chargers in receiving yards but his five receiving touchdowns are the most among all of the Chargers’ pass catchers.

Las Vegas has been decent against running backs this season, but they boast just the 26th-ranked pass defense in the NFL. Containing Ekeler will be key for the Raiders to avoid ceding third-down conversions and getting off the field when needed.

Keenan Allen vs Raiders secondary

Allen has been limited to just four games played this season due to nagging injuries, but when he has taken the field he’s been just as effective as he’s always been. Look no further than to Week 1 when he totaled 66 receiving yards on four catches versus the Raiders secondary, before eventually being sidelined with a hamstring injury.

Las Vegas’ 26th-ranked pass defense has struggled to contain anyone this season, but help could be on the way for this AFC West contest.

Nov 27, 2022; Seattle, Washington, USA; Las Vegas Raiders head coach Josh McDaniels shakes hands with a team staff member following a 40-34 overtime victory against the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports

Raiders who will play crucial role in making playoffs

At 4-7, the Las Vegas Raiders are bouncing back from a horrid start to their season. Can they make a run at the postseason?

Standout nickelback corner Nate Hobbs is expected to make his return on Sunday after suffering a fractured hand versus the Chiefs in Week 5. To say that his return provides a much-welcomed boost for Las Vegas would be an understatement.

The Raiders just put starting corner Anthony Averett on injured reserve, so if they can count on Hobbs to be on the field and line up across Allen when needed it would give them just a bit more security in coverage.

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