The Las Vegas Raiders Week 15 matchup against the Cleveland Browns is a pivotal moment for the 2021 season. Both franchises are desperate for a win, which should make this a great contest. We take a look at this Raiders-Browns game with some of our Raiders Week 15 predictions in mind.
Las Vegas hasn't had the most consistent defense this year, but they have a decent matchup on Saturday. The Browns have been hit hard with COVID-19 and won't have the best roster available in this game. This is the perfect opportunity for the Raiders to get back into the win column and keep their playoff hopes alive.
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With life being a little bit easier for the defense, this is no time to relax for the offense. The Raiders must play their best if they hope to win, especially since Myles Garrett will be doing everything to stop them. We should see Hunter Renfrow have another big performance, as he's proven to be the most reliable receiver in Las Vegas. Furthermore, we may finally see Darren Waller return while Josh Jacobs will attempt to carry his team to victory.
With that said, here are four bold Raiders Week 15 predictions for their game against the Browns.
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Raiders Week 15 Predictions
4. Raiders defense finds a way to shut down the Browns
The only thing going for the Browns' offense is that it looks like Nick Chubb will be playing. Kareem Hunt might be out, Baker Mayfield is dealing with COVID, and the receiving core is one of the worst in the league right now. This is a moment for the Raiders to take advantage and shut down Cleveland in a must-win game.
3. Hunter Renfrow torches Cleveland for 100+ yards and 2 touchdowns
Hunter Renfrow has burst onto the scene becoming the most reliable pass option for the Raiders. He's a phenomenal route runner and has fantastic hands as well. Renfrow is the definition of a slot receiver in the NFL and should be able to take advantage of Cleveland's weak secondary.
For that reason, we should see Renfrow put up another solid performance on Saturday. He's the number one target for the Raiders and is likely to beat Cleveland's defense throughout the day. Hopefully, Derek Carr can get rid of the ball on time, as Myles Garrett is the main threat of preventing Hunter Renfrow from having a big game.
2. Darren Waller comes back and ignites a flame in the offense
This offense has become flat since Darren Waller fell to a knee injury. There is optimism he comes back in Week 15, but it's yet to be determined. Waller is easily one of the most talented tight ends in the NFL and the Raiders need him on the field if they hope to win. If he plays, look for Waller to make an immediate impact.
1. Josh Jacobs carries Las Vegas to a big win
After going on a little streak, Josh Jacobs finally cooled down a bit in their last game. However, he could have a huge bounce-back performance on Saturday and lead the Raiders to a big win. To do that, Las Vegas must maintain steady rush blocking and open up the run lanes for their talented running back.
It's been a rocky couple of seasons for Jacobs. However, if he can string together solid performances in the final stretch of the year, the Raiders will have something to build off of for the offseason. Either way, this team needs Josh Jacobs at his best if they hope to defeat the Browns.