AFC West: Predictions For Each Team

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August 30, 2015; Oakland, CA, USA; Oakland Raiders outside linebacker Khalil Mack (52) during the second quarter in a preseason NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals at O.co Coliseum. The Cardinals defeated the Raiders 30-23. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports /

Oakland Raiders: The defense will total 50 or more sacks

It’s a little known secret that Raiders edge rusher Khalil Mack is more than good. The third year defender is on the verge of being mentioned amongst the league’s best regardless of position. Mack totaled 15 of the Raiders 38 total sacks in 2015 alone. The next leading sacker was middle linebacker Malcom Smith, with a nice round total of four sacks.

During the offseason, the Raiders dipped into the free agency pool to sign former Seattle Seahawks linebacker Bruce Irvin to add another legit pass rusher to the equation which will take at least some of the attention off Mack. The combo of Mack and Irvin will make life easier for DE Mario Edwards Jr., as well as the return of DE Aldon Smith, who’s suspension ends in mid-November and provides another elite pass rusher to throw at opposing QBs.

38 sacks by the team in 2015 with Mack pretty much carrying the burden was one thing. Sprinkle in Irvin with Smith chipping in along Edwards and others, the Raiders will be getting after the quarterback in 2016.

Next: San Diego Chargers

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