It’s off to Baltimore for the Raiders this week to square off against the Ravens. Let’s take a look at a few key matchups that could be of particular importance to the outcome.
Robert Spillane vs Derrick Henry
Last week the Raiders held up well against the run in the first half. Then it fell apart in the second half. Spillane wasn’t specifically to blame for any of the big runs the Chargers had in terms of execution. He didn’t miss those tackles and he didn’t screw up his run fits.
That being said, Henry has a way of forcing missed tackles. And it will be Spillane’s job to make sure his teammates are playing disciplined football. Particularly Divine Deablo had a couple big lapses last week that cost the Raiders big time. Spillane will have to not only do his job on a given play, but make sure his teammates are doing theirs. And even when he’s doing his job to keep Henry from winning their one-on-one battles.
Maxx Crosby vs Lamar Jackson
The Ravens’ offensive line has some issues at the moment. Crosby should get some pressure, as you typically does, but that won’t be enough in this one. It’s one thing to get into the backfield, it’s another to corral Lamar Jackson.
Crosby will have to think not only about getting pressure, but also protecting the edge from Jackson taking off running and also catching Jackson should he get near him. Jackson put up 122 yards rushing against the Chiefs in the opener and he will do that to the Raiders too if they’re not careful. Crosby is the most capable of limiting that damage.
Gardner Minshew vs Ravens secondary
The Ravens are vulnerable against the pass. The Chiefs had some good success through the air against them. Rashee Rice had 103 yards and Xavier Worthy had two touchdowns. And they will be without rookie top pick Nate Wiggins who is OUT with a concussion.
What the Chiefs have that makes most secondaries vulnerable is Patrick Mahomes. He can make anyone look silly. The Chiefs don’t have the talent at receiver the Raiders have, so that should count for something. Whether it does or not will be up to Minshew. He averaged an NFL low 4.5 air yards per pass last week. That has to change if the Raiders offense is to sustain drives and put up more than ten points.