Kansas City Chiefs at Oakland Raiders: Week 6 Preview
By Erik Lambert
One of the oldest and most enjoyable rivalries in the NFL. Now the Kansas City Chiefs and Oakland Raiders are back to playing meaningful games again.
It may not quite be the 1960s when they were fighting for championships, but there is no doubt this AFC West grudge match has plenty on the line. Especially after the Denver Broncos fell for the second-straight week. More than ever the division is wide open.
Background:
The setup is quite an interesting one. For the first time in years the Raiders are at the top of the standing. They are 4-1 and own sole possession of first place. Yet some still aren’t ready to believe in them. Their defense has shown little signs of being reliable and most of their wins have come in dramatic fashion against largely cupcake opponents. The playoff-experienced Chiefs represent their first real test of the season. Meanwhile Kansas City is hoping to get back on track after an ugly showing in Pittsburgh two weeks ago.
Injury Report:
Tamba Hali (knee) – Fans were thrilled to hear that Justin Houston is back practicing for the Chiefs. His return is almost at hand. However, until such time the pass rush remains on the shoulders of veteran Tamba Hali. Age has eaten away on him and forced the team to give him regular periods off in order to rest. It’s hard to say how effective he’ll be from week to week with questionable knees.
Latavius Murray (toe) – At the same time the Raiders offense may have to work some magic without their ace running back Latavius Murray. He’s already been declared out for the game with a nagging toe injury. That puts added pressure on quarterback Derek Carr to produce the big plays needed to win the game. A one-dimensional offense is a vulnerable offense.
Key Matchup:
Amari Cooper vs. Marcus Peters
The is the heavyweight bout fans are anxious to see. It’s one Cooper is probably psyching himself up for too. So far the Chiefs have had the antidote to him. In two games against them he has failed to catch more than two passes, produce over 70 yards or score a touchdown. Peters is aiming to keep it that way. He knows the Raiders offense goes as Cooper goes. Whomever wins this showdown likely will have a huge impact on the outcome.
Prediction: Chiefs win 27-23
Andy Reid is always good about rebounding from tough defeats. Add in the fact he’s yet to lose to this new Raiders team and the loss of Murray in the Oakland backfield. This feels like it will be a tight game but one Kansas City pulls out in the end with a late defensive stand.