The Los Angeles Chargers will host the Las Vegas Raiders this Sunday at 1:25 p.m. PST at SoFi Stadium, marking an important matchup in the AFC West. Both teams are seeking to regain momentum as the season nears its conclusion. The Chargers, who aim to achieve their first season sweep, enter the game after a bye week, while the Raiders look to recover from a rough stretch that has seen them lose nine of their last ten games.
Despite the recent downturn, this long-standing rivalry remains significant. The Chargers started the season strong with three divisional wins but faced a setback in their last outing, suffering a 29-point defeat to the Jacksonville Jaguars. In contrast, the Raiders recently experienced a disappointing loss to the Cleveland Browns, falling by two touchdowns at home.
Coach Jim Harbaugh of the Chargers acknowledged the intensity of the rivalry, stating, “Raiders, it’s a rivalry. And we know they’re going to bring it.”
Strategies for Success
For the Raiders to turn their fortunes around, interim play-caller Greg Olson must establish a consistent offensive rhythm. This involves addressing communication issues that plagued the previous system under fired offensive coordinator Chip Kelly. Establishing a strong ground game with running back Ashton Jeanty is essential, as is incorporating tight end Brock Bowers more effectively into the offense. Protecting quarterback Geno Smith will also be critical; he has been sacked 18 times in the last three games, with Cleveland accounting for ten of those.
On the other side, the Chargers need to ensure quarterback Justin Herbert receives adequate protection from a frequently changing offensive line. The Raiders have shown they can apply pressure, particularly from the edge, with defensive players Maxx Crosby, Malcolm Koonce, and Tyree Wilson. However, the Raiders’ linebackers struggle in coverage, presenting an opportunity for Chargers’ receivers like Ladd McConkey and Oronde Gadsden II to exploit this weakness.
In terms of injury updates, the Raiders will be without tight end Michael Mayer, while center/guard Jordan Meredith, defensive tackle Adam Butler, cornerback Darnay Holmes, and running back Zamir White are listed as questionable. For the Chargers, running back Omarion Hampton is out, and defensive lineman Otito Ogbonnia is also questionable.
Viewing Information
Fans can watch the game live on CBS and Paramount+ in Southern California. Nationally, it will be available through a subscription to NFL Sunday Ticket on YouTube TV. Additionally, local radio coverage can be found on 640 AM and 105.5 FM.
In a prediction shared by veteran sports writer Sam Farmer, he noted, “The Chargers needed a week off to heal up a bit and do some self-scouting. Now, they’re rested for their stretch run.” Farmer believes the Chargers have the advantage, projecting a final score of 28-17 in favor of the home team.
As the teams prepare to clash, fans will be eager to see if the Chargers can indeed sweep the Raiders for the second consecutive season, or if the Raiders will find a way to revive their season amidst ongoing struggles.
