Three X-Factors for Raiders vs. Chiefs
The Las Vegas Raiders are set to play their rivals, the Kansas City Chiefs, at Allegiant Stadium today.
The Chiefs (7-3) remain one of the top teams in the AFC, but they are not flawless this season. The Raiders (5-6), playing with a chip on their shoulders, have a chance to pull the upset by exploiting some of Kansas City's flaws.
The Raiders need to play complementary football on offense and defense, and musttake care of the football in order to pull out the victory. The Silver and Black have to be at their best in order to beat one of the top teams in the league.
It could come down to a few players having big games, so let’s take a look at three players who could be X-factors for the Silver and Black.
Defensive end Malcolm Koonce -- With Maxx Crosby’s status doubtful for today’s game, the Raiders need players like Koonce and rookie Tyree Wilson to step up and replicate Crosby’s impact.
While that is a tough standard to reach, Koonce is talented and has all the tools to be an impactful edge rusher for the Raiders. Through 11 games this season, Koonce has 22 total tackles, three tackles for losses, a forced fumble and two sacks. According to Pro Football Focus, he also has generated 24 total pressures.
The Chiefs’ tackle situation is not ideal, so Koonce has a chance to make life difficult for their offensive line and get after quarterback Patrick Mahomes.
Linebacker Divine Deablo -- Stopping tight end Travis Kelce is high on the list of the Raiders’ priorities. Having an athletic linebacker like Deablo is a good start.
Deablo is having a good season with 66 total tackles, three tackles for losses, a sack and two passes defended. His athleticism and speed match up with Kelce, giving the Raiders a chance to slow down the Chiefs’ top option in the passing game.
Deablo also can get downfield and stop ball carriers in the running game. He will be key in slowing down the Chiefs’ offense, and the Raiders are hoping he has another big game.
Linebacker Divine Deablo's play is key for a Las Vegas Raiders victory over the Kansas City Chiefs.
Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports
Tight end Michael Mayer -- Mayer continues to get involved in the passing game for the Raiders, and they have been better for it.
Interim Coach Antonio Pierce could help his team by continuing to utilize Mayer, who has 20 receptions for 224 yards and a touchdown this season.
Mayer is immensely talented, and with linebacker Nick Bolton not playing, the Raiders could look to utilize Mayer over the middle to spark the offense.
The Silver and Black will return home this week to celebrate Thanksgiving and take on their AFC West rivals, the Kansas City Chiefs, on Sunday, November 26, at 4:25 p.m. EST/1:25 p.m. PST.
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