5 bold predictions for Raiders against Chargers
By John Buhler
3. Carl Nassib will lead the Raiders’ pass-rush in sacks vs. the Chargers
One of the best parts of the Raiders this season has been their newfound pass-rush. Yes, a lot of that has to do with bringing in Gus Bradley as their new defensive coordinator. He knows how to generate pressure without sending extra rushers at the opposing quarterback. While it has been a different guy leading the way each week, look out for Carl Nassib to lead the way with 1.5 sacks.
One thing that serves the Raiders in this game vs. the Chargers is that Bradley knows where the vulnerabilities are along the Los Angeles offensive line. He can devise pass-rushing concepts that will take advantage of the opposing front-five to confuse second-year pro Justin Herbert. We also should not overlook the Raiders playing a de facto home game in Los Angeles on Monday night.
Even if the Chargers are on their way towards being a good team, there will be a ton of Raiders fans at SoFi Stadium in this game. The crowd will be heavily in the Raiders’ favor. On a crucial third down situation, Nassib will get a solo sack of Herbert on his own. Later in the game, Nassib will get credited for a half a sack on a rare all-out pressure by the Raiders’ pass-rush. He will play well.
Look for the Raiders to have roughly 3.5 sacks of Herbert on the night in this major rivalry game.