Antonio Pierce took to the podium Friday and in a matter of moments sent a shockwave through the oddsmakers. All with one word — OUT.
Pierce was asked about the game status for several Raiders starters for Sunday’s game against the Browns. His response each time?…
Maxx Crosby? OUT
Davante Adams? OUT
Michael Mayer? OUT
Divine Deablo? OUT
Thayer Munford? OUT
The Raiders opened this week as two-point favorites over the Browns. And in with Pierce’s announcement, the oddsmakers flipped it to the Browns being favored by 1.5 points.
The week started with both teams missing their best player and elite edge rushers. While Crosby was nursing an ankle injury, he was expected to play just as he always has. But he will end up missing the first game of his career.
Meanwhile the Browns started the week with Myles Garrett missing practice only to get him back the next day and they expect him to play Sunday.
Add Davante’s sudden hamstring injury and scratch and there’s your 3.5-point swing right there.
See: 5 Raiders who will attempt to fill the shoes of Crosby and other missing starters