Las Vegas Raiders vs. Los Angeles Chargers Pick & Prediction SEPTEMBER 8th 2024

Preview and Prediction

The previous year proved to be satisfactory enough for the Raiders to extend an invitation to Antonio Pierce to remain with the team after the Los Angeles Chargers made a surprising move to secure Jim Harbaugh as their new head coach. Pierce, who served as interim head coach for the last two months of the season, will face off against Harbaugh and the Chargers in the regular-season opener on Sunday, with both teams hoping to make a statement.

Pierce assigned his staff to focus on preparing for the game against the Chargers over two weeks ago, recognizing the unique situation of facing a team with a coach who has been brought in from the college ranks and numerous changes to their existing strategies. "We've been studying film extensively, going back as far as we can. We don't want to waste time looking at irrelevant seasons, but we may have to take a look at Harbaugh's 2011 season. He and offensive coordinator Greg Roman have a history together, so we're trying to gather any helpful insights. We have a great team upstairs who are experts at breaking down film. Ultimately, it's up to the players to make the necessary adjustments and adapt to the situation," Pierce explained.

The Chargers will enter the Harbaugh era with their franchise quarterback Justin Herbert leading the offense, after recovering from plantar fasciitis. However, there have been significant changes to the supporting cast around him, with veteran players like Keenan Allen, Mike Williams, and Austin Ekeler no longer on the team. Herbert will now rely on wide receiver Joshua Palmer, 2023 first-round pick Quentin Johnston, and rookie Ladd McConkey. The running back position will be handled by J.K. Dobbins and Gus Edwards.

During Wednesday's practice, the only player missing for the Chargers was wide receiver DJ Chark Jr. due to a hip injury, while cornerback Tarheeb Still was limited. Known for his unique methods and metaphors, Harbaugh's focus for the team is to continue building and improving each day. "We want to see if we can be better today than we were yesterday, and better tomorrow than we are today. It's a simple approach, but it just might work. We also want to keep our players healthy and continue to build their strength and size," Harbaugh stated.

Harbaugh is notorious for keeping his strategies and depth chart under wraps, and this preseason was no different. After leading the San Francisco 49ers to a 44-19-1 record and one Super Bowl appearance from 2011-2014, Harbaugh returned to the NFL following a national championship win at Michigan. He reportedly signed a five-year deal worth $80 million, with an annual salary of $16 million.

The Chargers boast a formidable defense, with elite edge rushers Joey Bosa and Khalil Mack putting pressure on opposing quarterbacks. Bosa, who has been dealing with injuries, is set to play on Sunday despite breaking his left hand a month ago. Mack, who recorded 17 sacks last season, the fourth-best in the league, will also be a force to be reckoned with.

The Raiders, on the other hand, have not won a playoff game since their Super Bowl appearance in 2002. Pierce took over as interim head coach last season and led the team to a 5-4 finish. He was officially named head coach in the offseason and has chosen Gardner Minshew II as the starting quarterback for the opener over Aidan O'Connell. "We believe Gardner gives us the best chance to start the season off strong," Pierce said.

Pierce emphasized that this game is not about him getting the permanent head coaching job in Las Vegas or returning to his hometown of Los Angeles. "Our focus is on getting our first divisional win against a tough opponent who is well-coached, physical, and resilient. We need to bring our A-game and be prepared for a tough battle," he said.

The Raiders had one of the lowest offensive averages in the league last season, with only 289.5 yards per game and 19.5 points per game. However, their defense is led by talented players like defensive end Maxx Crosby, who recorded 14.5 sacks in 2023. Crosby is the player that Herbert is most concerned about when he breaks the huddle. "We know how talented he is, and we know how talented their team is. Their defense is aggressive and makes a lot of plays," Herbert acknowledged.

Under new offensive coordinator Luke Getsy, the Raiders will look to improve their rushing game, which averaged only 90.7 yards per game last season, ranking 30th in the league. With Josh Jacobs now with the Green Bay Packers, Zamir White

PREDICTION

Las Vegas Raiders

19

22

Los Angeles Chargers

Las Vegas Raiders vs. Los Angeles Chargers Recap SEP 8TH 2024