Loser: DT Maliek Collins
Maliek Collins was brought in this offseason to become the starting three-technique in Paul Guenther’s system. He has for sure underperformed those expectations this season, not being disruptive during the first four games of the season. He was inactive for the Raiders’ big win against the Chiefs, and the defensive line didn’t look like they missed him.
A mixture of Vickers, Hankins, and Ferrell helped the Raiders pressure the interior against the depleted Chiefs offensive line. Kendall Vickers filled in well, causing a ruckus in the backfield on multiple occasions with Hankins displaying his pass-rush ability with the chance at more snaps. The Raiders’ interior had one of their best games of the season.
What does this mean for Collins? With Maurice Hurst outplaying him by a mile, it makes you wonder whether Collins might end up being the odd man out after a bad start. The Raiders have to build on this performance’s momentum, and bringing back Collins might hurt that momentum after a great performance by the defensive line.