Chiefs vs. Raiders: 3 key matchups to watch
By David Thomas
Justin Houston vs. Marshall Newhouse
The Chiefs have yet to lose a game when Houston either has a sack or a touchdown. With my prediction of the Chiefs winning this game I’m already predicting a sack for Houston. The Raiders in 2017 have continued to have the best pass protecting offensive line in football. However, just like last year the right tackle position also continues to be a weak spot. Right tackle Newhouse has allowed 4 sacks and 9 total pressures through 6 games this season.
When rushing on the left side (right side for offense) Houston is 7th in the NFL in pass rushing productivity by PFF. In 6 games Houston has been involved in 6 sacks all of which have come from the left side. This will be a prime matchup for Houston and should be in line for a productive day. It should also be worth mentioning Gabe Jackson, Newhouse’s partner to his left, has under-performed so far this year. This season Jackson has allowed 7 total pressures which is the most along the Raiders interior offensive line, and ranks 48th overall by PFF.
The Raiders overall so far this season has allowed more sacks through 6 weeks than they did all last season. They allowed just 8 sacks all last year with 126 total pressures in 2016. In 2017, the Raiders have 11 sacks and are on pace for 80 total pressures.
My prediction for the game is Houston should be in line for 5 tackles and 1.5 sacks.