5 bold predictions for the Oakland Raiders in 2018

ALAMEDA, CA - JANUARY 09: Oakland Raiders new head coach Jon Gruden (L) talks with Raiders owner Mark Davis during a news conference at Oakland Raiders headquarters on January 9, 2018 in Alameda, California. Jon Gruden has returned to the Oakland Raiders after leaving the team in 2001. (Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images) /

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DENVER, CO – OCTOBER 01: Bruce Irvin (51) of the Oakland Raiders celebrates after sacking Trevor Siemian (13) of the Denver Broncos during the second quarter on Sunday, October 1, 2017. The Denver Broncos hosted the Oakland Raiders. (Photo by Joe Amon/The Denver Post via Getty Images) /

1. Khalil Mack and Bruce Irvin will both notch double-digit sacks

The Raiders have some questions to answer on defense, but their pass rush ability isn’t up for debate. The duo of Mack and Irvin are more than capable of harassing every quarterback on Oakland’s schedule.

Lining both edge rushers up on the same side of the formation is almost unfair. It makes it borderline impossible to double team both players at the same time. Both Mack and Irvin benefit from the presence of the other on the field next to them.

It’s safe to expect Gruden to cook up some exotic blitz packages to make things even more difficult on offensive lines. That, combined with the duo’s natural talent will mean big years for both stars.

Next: Khalil Mack is the least of the Raiders' problems

Look for both men to reach the Pro Bowl. Furthermore, each rusher should be able to eclipse the 10-sack mark. The Raiders defense is going to have a serious advantage each time they can put the opposing offense in an obvious passing situation. Khalil Mack and Bruce Irvin should both have career years in Gruden’s defensive scheme. That’s bad news for tackles and quarterbacks all over the NFL.

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