The 4-1, division leading, San Diego Chargers will travel to Oakland this week to take on the 0-4 Raiders. San Diego is coming off a 31-0 victory over the New York Jets behind a fast-paced offense led by Philip Rivers, who is on pace for a career year. The Raiders, on the other hand, are coming off the bye with a lot of change as Tony Sparano is now the head coach with the firing of Dennis Allen.
The Raiders were embarrassed in their 38-14 loss to the Dolphins in London during Week 4 and showed struggles on both sides of the ball. Injuries continue to be a concern for the silver and black. Khalif Barnes has been ruled out, so Menelik Watson will get the start at right tackle, Sio Moore is questionable, and after missing the last few games, the Raiders defense could really use him back on the field, and lastly Derek Carr is listed as questionable, but looks like he will start Sunday.
San Diego will look to continue their hot start this weekend against a struggling Raiders team. Donald Brown, Ryan Mathews, and Manti Te’o have all been ruled out this week. Their offense has been fine with a limited run game behind the Rivers to Antonio Gates threat.
Players to Watch
Philip Rivers, Quarterback, Chargers
Through five games, Rivers has thrown for 1,443 yards and 12 touchdowns for a quarterback rating of 116.3. The Raiders defense has struggled to get off the field all year, and Rivers will take advantage of that. Oakland’s secondary is also under par, which Rivers will look to exploit. The Chargers quarterback has an opportunity to have a big game Sunday afternoon.
Antonio Gates, Tight End, Chargers
Gates is one of Rivers’ prime targets with five touchdowns on the season. Like Rivers, Gates could potentially have a big game this weekend against a defense that has given up a lot of points this year.
Derek Carr, Quarterback, Raiders
Despite suffering a knee and ankle injury against the Dolphins, Carr looks ready to start this week behind some extra motivation from Sparano who has said this is Carr’s football team. He is the leader of this offense and continues to get better each week. Carr is one of the few bright spots on this Raiders team and is always a joy to watch.
Khalil Mack, Defensive Lineman, Raiders
Like Carr, Mack is a young up and coming star in the league. He will look to get after Rivers and record a few sacks this week, but getting to Rivers can be difficult. The Raiders should show a better defensive effort, especially up front with the return of Moore if he is indeed good to go at gametime.
Final Prediction
Chargers 27
Raiders 17
The Chargers have beaten some of the better teams in the league and are 4-1 for a reason. Oakland is going through a lot of change right now with a new head coach and a new philosophy. The silver and black may look a little better on the field this week, but the Chargers leave with another W.