Raiders (1-2) at Chargers (1-2)
Sunday, 4:05 p.m. EDT, SoFi Stadium, Inglewood, California TV: CBS
Spread (BetMGM):
Chargers by 5.5
Raiders’ keys to victory: The Chargers have shown to be susceptible to the run, and Las Vegas needs to get going on the ground with RB Josh Jacobs. If the Raider can effectively run the ball, it’ll allow for more opportunities for QB Jimmy Garoppolo to test LA’s defense deep. (He threw for 324 yards in a Week 3 loss to the Steelers.) On the other side of the ball, it starts with pressure from DE Maxx Crosby and company early and often. If Las Vegas wins its one-onone matchups up front, it can then home in on WR Keenan Allen, who is coming off a day in which he had 18 catches for 215 yards.
Chargers’ keys to victory: The Chargers are coming off a prolific passing performance in which QB Justin Herbert threw for 405 yards. Against a Raiders team that’s in the middle of the pack against the pass, they need to stick to the script, especially as they will likely be without RB Austin Ekeler, who continues to nurse an ankle injury. Additionally, Los Angeles needs to efficiently block Crosby and, on defense, minimize explosive passing plays.
Matchup to watch: Raiders’ Crosby vs. Chargers OT Trey Pipkins. Crosby has been on a tear early in the season. If Los Angeles wants to sustain offensive success, Pipkins, who has been up and down this season, will have to be on his A-game.
Who wins? The Chargers offense has been hot through three weeks, and it wouldn’t be surprising if the Raiders struggle to keep pace. Meanwhile, the Los Angeles defense should be able to fend off Las Vegas’ average offense.
Chargers 27-17