Around the AFC West: The division race is heating up
By Ellen Mathis
Let’s take a look around the AFC West after a rocky week for the Chiefs, the momentum of the Raiders, IR returns in Denver, and the flailing Chargers.
Welcome back to another edition of Around the AFC West. Kansas City Chiefs fans are reeling after the loss to the Tennessee Titans on Sunday, but I am here to tell you that, yes in fact, the earth is crashing down around us and all is lost. Kidding, but it sure feels that way, right? Well, hold onto your hats because the AFC West race just got hot with an unexpected team nipping at the heels of what was thought to be a sure thing in the AFC West crown heading back to Kansas City. Let’s take a look at Week 10 and preview Week 11.
Oakland Raiders
The Oakland Raiders hosted the Los Angeles Chargers on Thursday Night Football in the last game the Chargers and Raiders will play in Oakland. This game had huge division ramifications with both teams needing a win to keep pace with the Kansas City Chiefs and to keep their hopes of postseason alive. The Raiders came to play. Jon Gruden coached a phenomenal game against the Chargers that included a game-winning drive from Derek Carr and a game-sealing interception from Karl Joseph.
The standout from the game was Erik Harris. While I would never cheer for a Raider, I have to admit that his story of getting to the NFL is incredible and worth a watch. Harris logged two interceptions in the game – one of which he returned 56 yards for a touchdown. The Raiders also found life in their pass rush game. Rookies Clelin Ferrell and Maxx Crosby wreaked havoc on Old Man Rivers and made his night miserable. With that win, the Raiders jumped to sole possession of second in the West and are right on the heels of the Kansas City Chiefs.
Things were not all roses and daisies for the Raiders, however, as they logged some fairly significant injuries. Karl Joseph, who caught the game-winning interception, injured his right knee and was placed on injured reserve. Additionally, defensive back Lamarcus Joyner injured his hamstring and while not considered season ending, will cause him to miss time.
The Raiders host the Cincinnati Bengals in what is sure to be a snooze fest. The Bengals are a bit of a joke this year (that might be the understatement of the century). They are in line for the first pick in the draft, which is probably a good thing since they have no good players to speak of. The Raiders, coming off a long week, have been playing well. Gruden seems to have coached them up and players are clicking. While I don’t think they have the power to make it far in the playoffs, they certainly have the ability to beat the Bengals. This will be a cake walk for the Raiders.
Opening line odds for the Raiders in Week 11: -10.5.
Game time is 3:25 p.m.