The Las Vegas Raiders are set to take on the Denver Broncos, which is one of the most important matchups in Week 16. The winner keeps their playoff hopes alive, while the loser's chances drop drastically. Las Vegas might be in trouble though, as Derek Carr will be without another pass option due to COVID-19.
According to Ian Rapoport, Bryan Edwards has been placed on the Reserve/COVID-19 list. With Darren Waller ruled out with a knee injury, the Raiders' pass options are dwindling. Derek Carr might be in for a rough day, as the Broncos have one of the best defenses in the league.
The #Raiders placed WR Bryan Edwards and QB Marcus Mariota on the Reserve/COVID-19 list, while activating QB Nathan Peterman and WR Dillon Stoner.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) December 26, 2021
Hunter Renfrow will easily be the best option for Carr on Sunday. He's been incredibly consistent this year and will likely see a ton of looks against the Broncos. However, Denver's defense will have an easier time defending the pass, as the Raiders won't have many valuable weapons lined up out wide.
To make matters worse, the Raiders will also be without Marcus Mariota. Although he's the backup quarterback, Las Vegas has called his number often for unique play calls. Considering so many receivers are out, Vegas could have used Mariota's versatility against the Broncos.
This is not an ideal situation for Las Vegas. With how close the AFC West is right now, they're essentially in an elimination game against the Broncos. If the Raiders hope to make the playoffs, they need to defeat Denver in Week 16. The offense is likely to lean on the run game, but look for Derek Carr to connect with Hunter Renfrow often.
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