The Chargers and Raiders are set to meet at Allegiant Stadium in a do-or-die affair, as the winner will earn a trip to the playoffs.
Here are six key things to know about Las Vegas ahead of the Week 18 bout.
One of the hottest teams
The Raiders are riding a three-game win streak, with victories coming over the Browns, Broncos, and Colts.
How they got here?
The Raiders have been carried by their defense. Amid the last three games, Las Vegas ranks first in total defense (218.7 yards per game), eighth in scoring (15.7 points per game), third in passing (142.3 ypg), and second in rushing (76.3 ypg).
Former Chargers playing vital roles
The defensive unit has benefited from the presence of Denzel Perryman and Casey Hayward. Perryman, who was named to his first Pro Bowl, has 145 tackles, five tackles for loss, three passes defended, and a forced fumble. On the other hand, Hayward has been beaten for just 298 total yards and one touchdown on 604 coverage snaps in 2021.
Below par offense
While Derek Carr has efficiently distributed the wealth, currently possessing the fourth-most passing yards (4,618), he has struggled to guide his unit in the end zone. As a result, the Raiders have only topped 23 points dating back to Oct. 25. Furthermore, their running game ranks fourth-worst in the NFL (90.2 ypg) and in the red zone, converting 50.91% of their trips.
Supposed to get top target back
One of the factors in the Raiders’ substandard offense is the absence of Darren Waller. Waller has missed the last five games due to back and knee injuries along with COVID-19, with his previous action coming on Thanksgiving. In 10 games, Waller has 53 receptions for 643 yards and two touchdowns.
Holding down the fort
While the Raiders offense has greatly missed Waller, it has immensely benefited from the presence of Hunter Renfrow. Arguably one of the slickest route-runners in the league, Renfrow recently topped the 1,000-yard mark (1,025), is one reception shy of 100, and has seven touchdowns to go along with it.
