The Los Angeles Chargers enter Monday night’s matchup against the Raiders with several advantages that could tip the game in their favor. Their defensive line is deep and disruptive, and Khalil Mack looms as a constant threat in the trenches against a Raiders offensive line already dealing with injuries and inconsistency.
Chargers MNF preview:
Rookie Ashton Jeanty struggled to get going in Week 1, and right tackle DJ Glaze has allowed multiple pressures, giving Los Angeles an opportunity to dictate the line-of-scrimmage battle.
The Chargers’ run defense has already shown it can dominate, holding Kansas City’s backs to just 41 yards on 10 carries last week in Brazil. Against a Raiders front that is less experienced and dealing with injuries, the Chargers should once again be able to control the ground game and force Geno Smith to beat them through the air. With their secondary at full strength, the Chargers are poised to limit Smith’s options and prevent big plays downfield.
Los Angeles also arrives with a slight rest advantage after opening on a Friday night, giving them extra time to recover and prepare. Combine that with a healthy roster and a hungry defensive unit, and the Chargers appear well-positioned to assert themselves in this early-season showdown, setting the tone for what could be a decisive victory in the AFC West rivalry.
Kickoff: Monday, September 15 vs. Las Vegas Raiders (10:00 p.m. ET on ESPN)
