Raiders Continue To Be Overlooked in AFC West

The Las Vegas Raiders continue to impress their opponents on a weekly basis and currently lead the AFC West with a 5-2 record. Behind them are the Chargers at 4-2, and the Chiefs are down in third place at just 3-4 on the season. Before we proceed, let us take a quick look at the current odds to win the AFC West at WynnBET Sportsbook. 

• Chargers: -110
• Chiefs: +225
• Raiders: +350
• Broncos: +2500

Now, I don’t know about everyone else, but I see some inconsistencies here. Namely, the fact that the team in first place in the AFC West has the third-best odds. Let’s forget about the Chargers here for a second because they have one less win due to a bye, and a win over the Raiders. Therefore, LA’s odds are understandable. 

But, the Chiefs? 

The Chiefs, who are 1-4 in conference games and 0-1 in the division are more likely than the Raiders to win the AFC West? I don’t buy it. A lot of people point to their amazing offense that averages more than 400 yards a game, and sure that's great and all. But, problems arise when you realize that the Chiefs also give up more than 400 yards on average per game to opposing offenses. It's even worse when you look at the discrepancy in points scored. KC has scored 188 points this season but given up 203. 

The Raiders, meanwhile, have scored only 180 points total so far this season. But, their defense has allowed only 166 and that is why they keep winning and the Chiefs keep losing. No matter how good Patrick Mahomes and that offense are, their defense is always just a little bit worse. 

The fact that the Raiders, whose next game is against the Giants, have worse odds to win the AFC West is an oversight and a diss. The Chargers I think deserve to be at least even, if not favored over the Raiders, but the gap between the two here is just too far.

It’s a great spot to pound LV before they inevitably go to the Meadowlands and beat up on the Giants in Week 9.