The Raiders recently suffered the narrowest loss of the season against the Vikings. The 4th quarter field goal from Greg Joseph closed the score 3-0 in Viking’s favor, but the uncertainty is larger than that. Just like the past few weeks, the Raiders keep a constant name on their injury report. A few more important names that could be crucial in deciding their next game vs the Chargers are on the list.
The Chargers, on the other hand, have suffered the bigger loss with Justin Herbert‘s exit. The offense is even more disorganized following a WR’s loss. Even on the defensive side of things, they miss their DB to equal the Raiders. Ahead of the Sunday game, NFL insider Ian Rapoport has shared the latest injury update for both sides.
Raiders vs Chargers: Big misses on either side of the card
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Once again, the Raiders have kept DE Maxx Crosby questionable following his knee surgery. Albeit it’s pretty much confirmed at this point that he’ll start the game once again. Crosby is joined by WR Davante Adams, who’s suffering from an illness. But Rapoport believes that just like Crosby, the WR is expected to start the game as well.
From @GMFB: Taking a look at the big injuries for TNF, including #Raiders RB Josh Jacobs’ status being in doubt with a quad injury. pic.twitter.com/r1L2WtL6HA
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) December 14, 2023
However, things are not so smooth on the opposition side. QB Justin Herbert is done for the season after fracturing his right thumb at the Broncos game. Their next greatest offensive weapon, WR Keenan Allen, is also out with a heel injury. The injuries have touched their defense as well, with DB Deane Leonard staying out of the Raiders game with problems in his knee and ankle.
With the regular season nearing an end, does either of the division rivals fancy a playoff chance? Likely not, as the Chiefs and Broncos remain out of their reach. But it’s a battle to avoid the 4th spot at this point.
The Raiders vs Chargers: A battle of significance
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The Raiders and the Chargers started the season quite differently. While the former, led by Josh McDaniels, produced an abysmal first few weeks, the latter was doing great with consistent display. But with time, the Chargers fell from the height and the Broncos made a crazy comeback to take their place.
With just 3 more weeks left in the season, it’s pretty much over for both. But their battle doesn’t end there. Both sides, riddled with injuries, are fighting to avoid the last place in the AFC West. Last season, the Broncos finished at 4th, but that’s an old story now. The Raiders currently occupy it despite being even with the Chargers on points.
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The next game will decide who’s replacing the Broncos this year. Both teams, without their QB1’s service, look to avoid the division floor in TNF tonight.
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