The Las Vegas Raiders will face off on Sunday when they take to the road to pick up defending Super Bowl champions Kansas City Chiefs.
It’s the kind of game where they must play full football to give the riders a chance to win, and it will also help if these special players land on Sunday and play a big game.
X-Factor # 1: Josh Jacobs
Now before being fired in every comment, yes, I know Josh Jacobs is a star player, a product you can generally trust.
The fact of the matter is that Jacobs didn’t make the hottest start. He has not yet picked up 100 yards running in the game this season and he only carries an average of 6.6 yards.
However, the chiefs offer the key to go.
While the Kansas City Rankings are second in the league in points, their defense is 25th or worse than their runners-up. Rush of opponents, attempts every yard and yard.
With this in mind, riders plan to enter the game of the game, often run and run.
If Silver and Black are able to control the clock and keep the ball out of Patrick Mahoms’ hands, it means Jacobs is doing his job and he’s doing well.
X-Factor # 2: Owners Collins and Jonathan Hankins
I can probably cheat by including two in one, but I will attach the riders’ defensive tussle in this case.
There’s a way that works to disrupt elite quarterbacks like Tom Brady, Aaron Rogers and Mahoms, and it’s getting pressure in the middle of the pocket.
So far this season, riders have not received a ton of pressure on defense in general, especially from the inside.
Collins and Hankins combined have 11 tackles and zero sacks so far this season.
If they can reverse the road against Kansas City and move the pockets, it gives the Raiders the protection they need to get on the field.
X-Factor # 3: Internal Offensive Line
Well, this is the last time I promise.
If we look at the Chiefs’ defense, the strength is the push of their pass, especially with defensive action Chris Jones.
Jones has turned into a racking ball in the last two seasons, accumulating 28 sacks since 2018.
The Raiders have done the right thing to save Derek Care so far, allowing seven sacks in the first four games.
It will be important for Rodney Hudson and Gabby Jackson to be able to hold that assignment against Jones.
How to watch or listen to the Las Vegas Raiders vs. Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday?
TV: CBS 1 PM ET / 10 AM PT
Radio: Rider Nation Radio
Odds: Las Vegas Riders +11.5
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