The Chargers are set to host the Raiders in Week 9 of the 2020 regular season, as they are eager to finally find themselves back to their winning ways.
With that being said, here are three key matchups that could be the determining factor of Sunday’s contest.
Chargers back seven vs. Raiders wide receivers
A big part of the late defensive meltdowns that have been ongoing lies in the back end of the defense. While the play-calling is one to point fingers at, the unit has been susceptible to leaving the middle of the field open as well as down the sidelines.
Derek Carr is having one of his best seasons yet, and he will look to challenge a defensive back group that no longer has Desmond King, is without Chris Harris Jr. and could be without Casey Hayward (non-injury related reasons).
Michael Davis will have a tough test against the speedy rookie Henry Ruggs, who is averaging 22 yards per reception. Davis has been up and down this season. Ruggs will draw the attention of Rayshawn Jenkins and Nasir Adderley, who both have also produced a mixed bag of results.
Darren Waller is establishing himself as one of the best tight ends in the league and given how the linebackers have been playing in coverage, it could be a recipe for disaster for Los Angeles if they can’t find a way to contain him.
Chargers defensive line vs. Raiders offensive line
Like I mentioned, Carr is having one of his best campaigns yet and the pressure will have to be put on in order to slow him down or else he will have no issue spreading the wealth with his quick release.
Not only that, but Josh Jacobs is coming off of one of his best performances of the season, and Las Vegas will look to utilize him early and often against a defensive line that will likely be without Joey Bosa, who is doubtful with a concussion.
Isaac Rochell, Bosa’s backup, will need to step up. Melvin Ingram and Uchenna Nwosu will have to continue to come up big against the pass and run. Meanwhile, the interior part of the defensive line can’t afford to get pushed back to clear lanes for Jacobs.
Chargers WR Keenan Allen vs. Raiders CB Trayvon Mullen
Justin Herbert has done a fine job of distributing the wealth to the plethora of skill players that he has it hand, but Allen has arguably been his top target up to this point. Allen is top 10 in receptions and is playing his way to be among that tier in receiving yards.
Herbert will look to get the ball to him early and often, considering the Raiders have struggled through the air. Mullen will be the one tasked with limiting the red hot Allen. The second-year cornerback has seven passes defensed this season.