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Following three consecutive defeats, the Las Vegas Raiders find themselves at risk of dropping below .500. The team's Week 7 showdown with the Los Angeles Rams is particularly intriguing, as both franchises are struggling.
The Raiders' recent skid has brought their deficiencies into sharp focus. To preserve their standing in the AFC playoff race, Las Vegas must swiftly rectify three major areas.
Key Analysis
Run Game Woes
Through six games, the Raiders rank 30th in the NFL with a paltry 79.2 rushing yards per game. The causes are twofold: running back Ashton Jeanty is not at full strength, and the offensive line has failed to create running lanes. In the past two games, the 22-year-old Jeanty has managed just 49 yards and one touchdown on 20 carries.
One potential fix is to increase the workload of rookie running back Mike Washington Jr. However, Washington Jr. did not practice on Thursday, so his availability for this week is uncertain. If his injury does not sideline him for multiple weeks, a more balanced split between the two backs—similar to last week's loss to the Buffalo Bills—could be beneficial. The second fix, improving the offensive line's run blocking, is easier said than done.
Wide Receiver Need
The solution to the Raiders' receiver problem is not currently on the roster. Tre Tucker has shown promise in flashes, but he is not a true No. 1 wideout. Las Vegas' passing attack relies heavily on tight ends Brock Bowers and Michael Mayer. While effective, this approach limits the offense's ceiling without a legitimate outside threat.
As the Nov. 10 trade deadline approaches, rumors are swirling about potential moves. Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. has drawn interest from multiple teams, but acquiring him would come at a steep cost. Nevertheless, the Raiders' front office should explore trading for a wide receiver. Their decision will hinge on the next few weeks; if Las Vegas remains in the wild-card hunt, they could become buyers.
Pass Defense Concerns
The Raiders' first three weeks may have been a fluke, as their opponents during that stretch have a combined record of 2-15. In the last three games, Las Vegas has faced elite quarterbacks Patrick Mahomes, Josh Allen, and Drake Maye, allowing 284.6 passing yards per game. While Matthew Stafford has struggled this season, the 38-year-old remains one of the best at his position. The Raiders' pass rush has been excellent, but the secondary has been vulnerable against above-average quarterbacks.