1. Week 1 vs the Baltimore Ravens
The Las Vegas Raiders have one of the toughest schedules in2021, starting with the Baltimore Ravens in Week 1. Not only will this be a true test of the Raiders' new offense, but it will also be a test of how they do against a dual-threat Quarterback. In fact, between Lamar Jackson having a lethal running game, and his ability to make precision passes when it counts, this will be a huge test for the defense. Hopefully, the Raiders are able to start the season on the right track.
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2. Week 4 vs the Los Angeles Chargers
Week 4 marks the Las Vegas Raiders' first divisional matchup of the season, but it's also a chance to right a wrong from last year. That wrong was the Chargers defeating the Raiders 30-27 last year in a game that pretty much killed what was left of the Raiders' playoff chances. Of course, the Raiders kind of did that to themselves, especially after their 43-6 loss against the Falcons, but the loss to the Chargers was the final straw. That's why the Raiders really need to take control of their own destiny and try to add an easy division victory when they can!
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3. Week 9 vs the Kansas City Chiefs
It's no secret that the Las Vegas Raiders will need to make it through the Kansas City Chiefs to make it to the playoffs. Sure, they were able to hand the Chiefs their lone loss of the regular season last year, but who knows if that could happen again. This game against the Chiefs tests the Raiders' playoff chances and their ability to hang with quality opponents.
With that being said, this time the Raiders will have the combination of Kenyan Drake and Joshua Jacobs to work with, which could do a lot to help chew the clock and slowly march the ball down the field. Quarterback Derek Carr also has a few new wide receivers as well, making it easier for him to move the ball. If nothing else, the Raiders have a chance to win this game; they just need to play smart football.
4. Week 15 vs the Denver Broncos
Divisional games matter so much more as the season goes on, making the Raiders' Week 15 matchup against the Denver Broncos a huge game. While the Raiders were able to top the Broncos in both of their matchups last season, the Broncos have done some growing during the offseason. That means they are likely a much stronger team than before and could easily be an obstacle for the Raiders. Add in the likelihood that Las Vegas will probably be fighting to stay in the playoff hunt towards the end of the season, and you have a do-or-die situation.
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5. Week 16 vs the Indianapolis Colts
Believe it or not, the last challenge for the Las Vegas Raiders in the upcoming season will be against the Indianapolis Colts in Week 16. Keep in mind, this is the team that the Raiders lost to last year, which severely damaged their chances of limping into a playoff spot. Now, the Colts will have a new Quarterback for the team to deal with.
Now, it's likely that these two teams will be competing for a wild card spot as the season wears on, making this a must-win scenario if the Raiders want a shot at the postseason.
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