Game Preview: Los Angeles Chargers at Las Vegas Raiders

This is the game of the week, as it is essentially the first playoff game of the year with two 9-7 AFC West rivals battling for a wildcard spot in primetime. This game may also be an entertaining shootout as the Chargers average 277.8 passing yards per game (4th in the NFL), while the Raiders average 274.7 (6th). The Chargers rebounded from two heartbreaking losses (to the Chiefs in overtime and then the Texans) by beating the Broncos last week to set them up for this game. QB Justin Herbert has nearly identical numbers to his Rookie of the Year campaign last season and will give the Chargers a puncher's chance against any team if they can make the playoffs. RB Austin Ekeler has had a breakout year, with the second-most fantasy points (314.9) out of any running back in the NFL.

The Raiders have won 3 in a row against tough teams (Browns, Broncos, Colts) by playing great defense (average 15 points against in the last 3 games) to give themselves a chance at making the playoffs. They upset the Colts in Indianapolis last week with a last-second field goal for their 5th walk-off win of the season (the most of any team since 1970). The Raiders have righted their ship despite plenty of midseason drama, including letting go of head coach John Gruden. Rich Bisaccia has done a great job as interim head coach and is making his case for a permanent gig if he can lead his team back from the brink of dysfunction to a playoff berth. The Raiders will expect TE Darren Waller to be active this week after missing the last 5 games. The Chargers have the better team on paper, but the Raiders are at home with momentum, and the death of John Madden last week could provide extra motivation.

Spread: Chargers favored by 2.5 points
Over/under: 47.5

Preview Question: Raiders RB Josh Jacobs has been getting more action recently, as he has 204 scrimmage yards in his past two games. How many scrimmage yards will Jacobs have in this game?

Pro tip: If the Raiders' defense can continue to play well, they might rely on Jacobs for ball control. The Chargers' defense is more susceptible to the run, as they give up the 3rd most rushing yards per game (136.7) compared to their secondary, which is 13th in the NFL (224.3 passing yards against per game).

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