Trying to catch the last train
It's quite amazing that the Raiders are still alive. Bunch of results will have to fall their way today, but the calculation for them to get into the playoffs does exist. Standing at 6-4 just a month ago, they were one of the most pleasant surprises of the season, considering that nobody expected them to hold a winning record at that point, after playing a brutal schedule to begin the season. But then a downfall began, where they lost four games in a row (and were favored in two of those). Just when we thought it's over, they defeated the Chargers last week, and thanks to some other results, they got right back in the playoff race.
In order to get there, they obviously need to win their game. But also need Pittsburgh to lose to Baltimore, Tennessee to Houston and Jacksonville to Indianapolis. At first glance, that doesn't seem like mission impossible. But unfortunately for Oakland, some of these teams already cemented their places int he playoffs and will rest their starters today. Baltimore does have a very deep roster and could still defeat Pittsburgh who has issues of their own at the QB position. But the one between Houston and Tennessee is a tricky one. McCarron replacing Deshaun Watson and not having DeAndre Hopkins at this disposal is a massive downgrade. Especially against a fired-up team, trying to catch the last train.
Excitement
They are traveling into a hostile environment to get their part of the job done. There is a lot of excitement in Denver, after last couple of games, where it seemed that they finally have found a franchise quarterback. Rookie Drew Lock, had a great December, after taking over the starting job. They won three out of four games, losing only to Kansas City int hat period. Lock took their passing offense to another level, racking up some yards effortlessly but keeping mistakes at a low number, which is rare for young quarterbacks.
They would love to finish the regular season on a high note and keep the morale high going into the offseason. Playing a spoiler and ruin the plans of their arch-rival would be a nice bonus. They will be missing couple of big bodies in the offensive line, because James, Wilkinson and Leary are all out because of the injuries. With Raiders defense shutting down the run last week at the Chargers, this might mean that Broncos will have to put this game in Lock's hands and hope that the youngster can pull it off.
Broncos vs Raiders best bet
Raiders' rushing attack is taking a hit because of the injuries as well. Once again, they will be missing Josh Jacobs, who injured his shoulder couple of weeks ago, while Richie Incognito is doubtful. Run game was a big part of their success early in the season. Derek Carr will have to step up here and show that he can put this team on his back and lead them to victory.
Looking at some of the props, one of them did catch my eye. Drew Lock is a gunslinger and can put the ball in danger at times. He threw three interceptions in his four appearances so far, but the Raiders' defense is not really known for turning the ball over, especially in the passing game. Trayvon Mullen will take some chances at times, but he doesn't have good enough hands to complete the catches, while Daryl Worley mostly plays with his back against the quarterback, making him less dangerous to intercept the ball. At plus money, I believe there is some value with under 0.5 interceptions thrown by Lock in this game
