Betting Odds
Point Spread: Raiders -3
Total: 48.5
Raiders WR Denarius Moore had a big game last week in Kansas City.
The Chargers had scored 34+ points in their previous three games before last week’s debacle. Playing behind a weak O-line, QB Philip Rivers has forced several throws and has tossed 19 interceptions on the year. The Raiders have picked off 17 passes this season and look for their improved pass rush (39 sacks) to get to Rivers and to force him into quick throws. Oakland’s run defense hasn’t been strong but the Chargers often abandon the run. RB Ryan Mathews has rushed for 1,091 yards in 2011 but had only 14 touches last week. TE Antonio Gates and WR Vincent Jackson are having good years and the Raiders secondary will have to account for both on every play.
The Raiders offense received a spark with the return of rookie WR Denarius Moore last week (61-yard TD catch) and he caught two passes for scores in the first meeting. He has become QB Carson Palmer’s favorite receiver and look for him to be targeted frequently. RB Michael Bush gashed the Chargers for 157 yards on 30 carries in the first matchup and the team totalled 191 in the win. Oakland’s offense functions best when they run the ball and then let Palmer take shots deep. WR Darrius Heyward-Bey leads the club in catches and yards and is another deep threat for the Chargers to worry about. The Raiders O-line went through a shaky stretch in the past month but has allowed only 25 sacks on the year. San Diego’s pass rush has been very inconsistent in 2011.
ATS Pick
This is probably the biggest game for Oakland in the last nine years. If they win, they will win the division if Denver loses. They also have a scenario to make it as a wild card entrant. The Chargers are coming off a humiliating loss that will probably cost their head coach his job. Moore’s return last week gave the offense a boost and we like the Raiders to achieve their first winning record since 2002.
Take the Raiders
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