Thursday Night Football continues tonight in Week 16 of the NFL as the Oakland Raiders host the San Diego Chargers on NFL Network. These division rivals matched up earlier this season in Week 7 when the Raiders torched the San Diego defense with 37 points. With the possibility of the Raiders making the Playoffs obsolete now, it is likely that this game will be very intense as both teams look to leave the under-achieved 2015 season on a good note. I like the Raiders at home this night. Let's analyze to see just what this match-up will mean to both of these teams. Tune in tonight exclusively on NFL Network at 8:25 p.m. E.T to see how it will play out.
(Dec. 19, 2015 - Source: Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images North America)
The Oakland Raiders have tackled a few quality teams this season. Oakland has defeated the Broncos, Jets and other household names in the league to help establish firm faith in the future of the franchise. QB Derek Carr is having quite a season and won't be looking to slow down tonight. Did I mention that this will be superstar DB Charles Woodson's last home game with the Black & Silver? Expect the Raiders home crowd to come out roaring with a intensity level to unbearable for a inadequate Chargers offense. Expect WR Amari Cooper and WR Michael Crabtree to each have 5 plus receptions and a TD. I like the Raiders
(Dec. 19, 2015 - Source: Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images North America)
The San Diego Super Chargers have the same cast leading their regime that they've had for nearly a decade now. The 4-10 record speaks volume to a disappointing season, but the fact they have QB Phillip Rivers and TE Antonio Gates always makes watching their offense work celebratory. Last week the Chargers destroyed the Miami Dolphins 30-14, leading by double digits for majority of the game. Rivers tossed 3 touchdowns and went 26/36 on passes for 311 yards. San Diego led the time of possession statistic 21:07 to 38:53 against the Dolphins who looked just awful. Tonight they'll face a tougher opponent in Oakland who will likely bring it to the Chargers defense. The San Diego secondary will have their work cut out for them tonight against a Raiders receiving core that is simply marvelous. I don't like the Chargers chances on the road tonight.
