Oakland Raiders: A Few Keys To Victory Over The San Diego Chargers
By Kevin Saito
The Oakland Raiders square off with division rival San Diego in a game that features two teams seemingly headed in opposite directions – let’s look at a few keys to victory over the Chargers.
At 3-1, the Oakland Raiders are a team with some momentum and seem to be building towards something bigger – potentially even a playoff berth this season. At 1-3, and missing half their roster due to injury, the San Diego Chargers are a team that seems headed in the opposite direction. It’s a classic trap game and if the Raiders end up looking too far ahead, they may find themselves snakebit.
In a game like this, the Raiders have to be careful. San Diego is a dangerous team and one that should be taken seriously. Given their 1-3 record, the Chargers really don’t have anything to lose at this point and should be expected to throw everything – including the kitchen sink – at the Raiders.
Division games are always difficult. Teams always bring a little something extra to divisional matchups. And despite their less than optimal record, you can expect the Chargers to do just that.
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As long as Philip Rivers is under center, San Diego – in theory – has a shot to win. He can seemingly get the most out of even middling talent. And even with the host of injuries to key players the Chargers have suffered, Rivers has had them in each and every game they’ve played.
If not for a few breakdowns at key moments – as well as some bad luck – the Chargers could be sporting an entirely different record and this game could have an entirely different context.
The Chargers are always a tough out and now that they have their backs against the wall, expect them to come out fighting even harder. The Raiders can’t afford to overlook San Diego because this is a team that can rise up and bite them.
With that in mind, let’s take a look at a few keys to victory over San Diego.