The Los Angeles Chargers kick off Week 4 against the Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday, Oct. 1 at 1:05 p.m. PT.
Who is going to come out victorious?
Here is a look at the predictions from each of our writers at Chargers Wire:
Gavino:
Despite missing a handful of key players to their respective injuries, I still expect the Chargers to light up the scoreboard against a struggling Raiders defense. On the flip side, Las Vegas has not scored more than 18 points this season, and they are rolling out rookie Aidan O’Connell while Jimmy Garoppolo is out with a concussion. These two teams always play each other tough, so I expect a close battle, but ultimately, Los Angeles comes out on top.
Chargers 30, Raiders 24
Alex K:
Even without Austin Ekeler, Mike Williams and Corey Linsley (heart), this Chargers offense shouldn’t have any problems moving the ball against a Raiders defense that ranks 28th in defensive DVOA. LA has been a top 5 unit on offense this season and has yet to score less than 24 points in a game. With Raiders Jimmy Garoppolo out due to concussion protocol, a banged-up Chargers defense should still be able to hold their own.
Chargers 30, Raiders 21
Alex I:
The Chargers are coming into this game yearning for the BYE week health-wise. Joey Bosa, Derwin James and Austin Ekeler are just a few of the Chargers’ premier players expected to miss the contest against the Raiders. Corey Linsley and JT Woods are also out, as they were placed on the NFI list today. Quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo and cornerback Nate Hobbs are out for Las Vegas. It will be a battle of attrition in Los Angeles.
Ultimately, my trust in this game lay in Justin Herbert to lead the offense to a win. The uncertainty at quarterback for the Raiders has to be taken advantage of. Considering Hobbs ‘ absence, he and Allen can stay hot as they head into the BYE.
The defense does trouble me, though. No Bosa or James is significant in this one. The back half of the defense will also be trying to re-integrate J.C. Jackson after his healthy scratch, as they’re down multiple safeties.
Still, the Chargers’ offensive firepower should win despite the defense. It’ll be a shootout late, but the Bolts survive.
Chargers 27, Raiders 24
Juliette:
I predict this will be the first game of the season in which Brandon Staley could potentially hold a team under 21 points. Even though multiple defensive starters are out or limited going into Sunday’s game, the Chargers should still be poised to come out on top, with the Raiders being forced to play a backup quarterback. Corey Linsley will also be out on Sunday. Still, QB Justin Herbert has been in this position before, and with the rest of the line holding strong, he should still be set to make some necessary plays – and we might even get to see rookie WR Quentin Johnston be more utilized in the unfortunate absence of Mike Williams. This will be an opportunity for Johnston to have his NFL breakout game playing alongside Keenan Allen and Joshua Palmer.
Chargers 27, Raiders 17