The Raiders will try to win their first game since September on Sunday when the Broncos visit Las Vegas. Coach Antonio Pierce has already seen his team lose six games in a row, and he needs to get on the winning list sooner rather than later to head off rumors about his job security, or lack thereof.
Kickoff is at 1:05 p.m. Pacific time on CBS. The game will reportedly be broadcast in Denver, Las Vegas and a large area surrounding the two cities The game will also be broadcast in Dallas, Indianapolis, Chicago, Washington, Detroit and Minneapolis.
The Broncos (6-5) defeated the Falcons 38-6 last week behind four touchdown throws from rookie quarterback Bo Nix. Nix has looked great lately and will pose a challenge for the Raiders' defense, much more so than he did earlier in the year when Las Vegas faced Denver on the road.
With the Raiders (2-8), Pierce based his plan for success this season on a strong rushing attack. But the run game was virtually non-existent in Las Vegas, crippling Pierce's entire operation.
But new offensive coordinator Scott Turner injected some life into the offense last week against the Dolphins. Turner figures different running backs will carry the load against the Broncos as Zamir White and Alexander Mattison are doubtful to play. Veteran Ameer Abdullah, who had a touchdown catch last week, and rookie will probably get an opportunity.
A solid running game will also help the defense. Injuries have decimated this group, and some extra rest from a competent criminal would provide a boost. And of course, you can expect Turner to get the ball to superstar rookie tight end Brock Bowers early and often.
As interim coach, Pierce performed well against AFC West opponents last season. Can he do the same this year and maybe save his job in the process? We'll find out soon enough.
