Three Keys to a Raiders' Week 1 Victory

On Sunday, the Las Vegas Raiders begin their 2024 season in Southern California, as they'll take on the Los Angeles Chargers in a fiesty Week 1 matchup. This game is set to be very close, but by doing these three things, the Raiders can ensure a Week 1 victory.

Establish the Run Early

This is perhaps the most important of all three. Las Vegas is going to live and die by the run, and it's something they'll need to be able to do early. By establishing this part of their game plan first, they can control the clock and thus the pace of the game.

The Chargers' biggest weapon is their quarterback , Justin Herbert. By controlling the clock, Las Vegas can keep him off the field, and keep their defense well-rested. It will also make life easier for their quarterback, Gardner Minshew.

Use Play-Action to Settle Minshew Early

If the Raiders can force Los Angeles to respect their rushing attack early, they can use play-action to give Gardner Minshew some good looks off of that as well.

A deep ball to Tre Tucker , or even a crossing route to Brock Bowers or Davante Adams could help Minshew settle into his first start with Las Vegas. The goal here is to give him simple, easy reads to help him grow some confidence early in the game.

Be Physical on the Outside

We know that the Chargers are going to run the ball, as that's a staple of any Jim Harbaugh-led team. However, Las Vegas is built to contain the run, with a stout defensive line and linebacker group.

Where Los Angeles can really do damage is with Herbert. This is where Jack Jones, Nate Hobbs and Jakorian Bennett must shine.

The Chargers have a multitude of young, inexperienced receivers. If the Raiders' defensive backs can play hard and physical early, it will make life much more difficult for the Chargers, and stifle Los Angeles' passing attack.

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