The Chargers will host the Raiders on Sunday, Oct. 1, at 1:05 p.m. PT.
To get you prepped for the Week 4 bout, here are five key things to know about Los Angeles’ opponent ahead of the matchup.
Leading the charge
The Raiders had a big question mark over the quarterback position entering the week, as Jimmy Garoppolo entered concussion protocol after he was examined following Sunday night’s loss to the Steelers. He did not practice on Wednesday. However, Garoppolo returned to practice on Thursday, which could be a sign that he will be under center for Las Vegas. Through three games, Garoppolo has completed 68% of his passes for 709 yards, five touchdowns and a league-leading six interceptions so far this year. If for some reason Garoppolo can’t play, the Raiders will start either veteran Brian Hoyer or rookie Aidan O’Connell.
The heartbeat of the offense
The Raiders have a subpar offense up to this point in the season, but they still have a difference-maker on that side of the ball. Davante Adams, who is in Year 2 with Las Vegas, already has 25 receptions, 322 yards, and three touchdowns. Last season, Adams caught 100 passes for 1,516 yards and 14 scores. Despite nearing 31 years of age, he is still one of the best route runners in the league.
Struggling on the ground
Just last season, Josh Jacobs finished as the NFL’s rushing king. That has not carried over to this year, as the Raiders have had one of the worst run offenses in the league. Las Vegas has just 185 rushing yards (worst in the league) and is averaging 2.9 yards per carry (30th). Jacobs has just 108 rushing yards and is averaging 2.4 yards per carry after finishing his 2022 campaign with 1,653 rushing yards, the most of any player.
Poor passing defense
The Chargers’ high-powered passing offense against the Raiders defense is a mismatch. Las Vegas has allowed the third-most passing touchdowns (7) and the third-highest completion percentage (74.8) in three weeks. Meanwhile, Justin Herbert has completed 74.4% of his passes, the most by any quarterback. Las Vegas will heavily lean on Maxx Crosby, one of the very few bright spots on defense, to try to disrupt Herbert. Crosby has 19 quarterback pressures and two sacks.
Look out for…
Jakobi Meyers. Meyers, the former Patriot wide receiver, has proven to be a great complement to Adams. He has 22 targets, 16 catches, 166 yards and two scores through two games.