Ahead of the Denver Broncos’ game against the Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday, we asked Marcus Mosher of Raiders Wire five questions about his team and Sunday’s showdown in Vegas. Check out our questions and Mosher’s answers below.
1
How has Aidan O'Connell looked this year -- is there any chance of him being the QB1 in 2024?
It’s been an up-and-down year for O’Connell. He has made some really good throws and there have been some games where he looks awesome. But there have been other times where the Raiders have struggled to gain a single first down in a quarter. O’Connell will likely be the backup in 2024, but the Raiders aren’t down on him at all. For a Day 3 rookie, he’s handled himself well.
2
Josh Jacobs has been a thorn in the side of Denver's defense for years. Do you think he might return to action this week?
Probably not. Jacobs is set to be a free agent in 2024 and it might be best for him to sit out this week and make sure that he is fully healthy for the offseason. Plus, the Raiders want to see more of Zamir White, who has started each of the last three games. White has a real chance to be the RB1 in 2024, so don’t be surprised if the Raiders give him an extended look in Week 18.
3
Does Vegas have any notable weaknesses the Broncos might be able to exploit?
The Raiders can give up big plays in the passing game, specifically off play-action. The Colts hit them last week over and over on play-action throws down the field and it’s what ultimately did them in. The Raiders have a very aggressive defense, especially in the secondary. Their young cornerbacks love jumping routes and that can get them in trouble at times. As long as the Broncos can protect up front, they should have open receivers down the field.
4
Name an underrated Raiders player that Denver fans should be aware of this week.
Zamir White qualifies for this list, but let’s pick another name because he was already mentioned. DE Malcolm Koonce has been a revelation for the Raiders this year as they’ve finally found a bookend to go with Maxx Crosby. Koonce got a little banged up against the Colts, but he is expected to play in Week 18. He’s become a really impactful pass rusher and that has allowed the Raiders to kick Tyree Wilson, the No. 7 pick in the 2023 NFL draft, to defensive tackle. The Raiders have a really dynamic and relentless pass rush now with Koonce taking a huge step forward in Year 3.
5
What's your prediction for Sunday -- who wins and why?
I think this game is going to be pretty close, as usual. But with both teams already eliminated from postseason contention, motivation will be a deciding factor. For the Raiders, Antonio Pierce is coaching for his job. He wants this win and they are at home. Expect the defense to play with their hair on fire and get a close, hard-fought win on Sunday. Raiders 16, Broncos 13.
(To view our answers to questions from Marcus, visit Raiders Wire.)
