3 reasons the Raiders win the AFC West

2. Easy opponents down the stretch

When it comes to making the playoffs, it always helps to have a favorable schedule down the stretch. The Raiders have just that.

After returning from their bye, they go on the road to face the New York Giants, who are 2-5 on the season. Yes, the Giants did beat the Carolina Panthers 25-3 on Sunday, but they still reside in the bottom of the NFC standings and do not look like contenders just yet.

In Week 13, Las Vegas takes on the Washington Football Team, who have drastically underperformed on the year, especially on defense. Then, they go at it again with the Broncos at Allegiant Stadium in Week 15. That next weekend, they take on an Indianapolis Colts team that is far from the playoff team they were last year.

But perhaps one advantage they do have on the schedule is they face the Chiefs twice. In previous years, that would be a massive deterrent on picking the Raiders to win the division. The thing is, Kansas City’s defense is abysmal this season and have held the team back. That has translated to the offense, led by quarterback Patrick Mahomes, playing a desperate game of catch-up. Las Vegas’ offense can put up points, and they should have no issue doing so against the lackluster defense of the Chiefs.