Oakland Raiders: A Few X-Factors To Watch For Versus Indianapolis

The Oakland Raiders square off with the Indianapolis Colts in a Christmas Eve showdown that has playoff implications for both squads – here are a few x-factors to keep an eye on.

Thanks to the Tennessee Titans, the Oakland Raiders are back in control of their own playoff destiny. Win out, and they’ll claim their first AFC West title since Salt Lake City was hosting the Winter Games and people actually openly admitted to liking the music of Creed.

Suffice it to say, it’s been a long time. An embarrassingly long time. Of course, not nearly as embarrassing as admitting you enjoyed Creed, but still plenty embarrassing.

Oakland has wrapped up a playoff berth. That’s not in question. That ticket has already been punched. What is in question though, is where, who, and when they’ll play. While winning home field throughout the AFC playoffs isn’t mathematically off the table, it’s not looking likely – not unless they win out and the Patriots go into a late season swoon – a swoon many of us would like to see that has nothing to do with playoff positioning.

The more likely scenario – and really, the only thing they can control at this point – is securing a first round bye and getting a home game as the AFC’s number two seed. But to do that, they are going to have to win out – remember, the Chiefs are still nipping at their heels.

And the first obstacle in their way is the Indianapolis Colts. At 7-7, the Colts are still scrapping and clawing for a ticket to the postseason dance and will likely come out firing. They will most definitely give the Raiders all they have because a loss will eliminate them from postseason contention. While a win doesn’t guarantee it, it would certainly improve their chances.

With a lot still on the line for both teams, the Raiders are going to need to come out focused and play disciplined football. Despite hovering at 7-7, the Colts are a team Oakland can’t afford to take lightly.

With that in mind, let’s look at a few x-factors to keep an eye out for against the Colts.