One look at the AFC West standings and it’s clear: this is a big week for the Raiders. Trailing the division-leading Chiefs by a game, Oakland heads to Kansas City on Sunday to stake its claim as best in the west.
Led by superstar quarterback, Patrick Mahomes, the Raiders’ longtime rival exploded for 28 points in one quarter the last time these teams met, back in September, on their way to a 28-10 win. But since that loss, the Raiders have shaped an identity, and it just so happens to match up well against Kansas City’s chief weakness.
Here are the players that must step up if the Raiders are to win a game that would re-shape the AFC West race.
DE Maxx Crosby
The Raiders’ chances on defense hinge on their ability to bother Mahomes when he drops back to pass, and defensive end Maxx Crosby has emerged as Oakland’s best playmaker when it comes to disrupting the offense.
His 7.5 quarterback sacks would be impressive for any player, let alone a rookie fourth-round pick from Eastern Michigan. Though the Chiefs’ pass protection is solid, having allowed just 19 sacks so far, Crosby can make an impact with QB pressure alone, aided by his long arms and a high motor.
Watch to see Crosby build on an already impressive campaign. According to The Athletic’s Vic Tafur, he’s one of just two NFL players with a minimum of six sacks, three forced fumbles and three passes defensed in 2019, joining the Steelers’ T.J. Watt.
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