Oakland Raiders v Indianapolis Colts: Game Day Open Thread

The Oakland Raiders are playing host to the Indianapolis Colts in a game that has playoff implications for both squads – this is your place to talk about the game and all things Raiders football.

One team has a playoff ticket in hand. The other is still scrapping for an invite to the dance. The Oakland Raiders will be facing a desperate, frantic Indianapolis Colts team. Especially if the Jaguars somehow manage to hang on and beat the Titans today.

The Raiders still have a lot left to play for and can’t afford to get caught looking too far ahead to the playoff road they’ll be taking.

If there is one thing that HC Jack Del Rio has done well, it’s making sure his team stays grounded and focused. For the most part. You haven’t seen a lot of letdowns after big games this year. It was something that seemed to be a staple in year’s past.

But then, that’s why this team is in the playoffs and those past Raiders’ squads weren’t.

Oakland needs to keep winning (or have Kansas City keep losing) to claim the AFC West title. Their first in forever. If they win out, they finish 13-3, claim a first round bye, and get to host a playoff game. Of course, it’s possible that the Patriots stumble and the Raiders could still slide into a home field throughout situation – though, it’s not very likely.

The Raiders will likely be going into the playoffs as the AFC’s second seed rather than the conference’s top seed. Unfortunately. But hey, at least they’re going into the playoffs. They’ve been the underdogs all season long, so it’s nothing new.

The big bright shiny spot for the Raiders this week is obviously, the return of Mario Edwards. Jr. The Oakland defense was a much better unit with him on the field than it has been without him. Having him back will not only bolster the run defense, but it will also help free up Khalil Mack and Bruce Irvin to make a few more plays by virtue of the attention Edwards will draw on his own.

Next: Raiders v Colts: A Few X-Factors To Watch For

So, let’s hear from you, Raider Nation? What do you think will happen today? How will this game play out? Will the Raiders come out with their hair on fire? Or will they fall flat? Will the defense keep their solid play going? And how will the return of Mario Edwards Jr. bolster them?

Will this team beat a desperate Andew Luck and his Colts team? How do you see this all playing out, Nation?

This is your place to talk about the game and all things Raiders football. Let’s hear your thoughts and opinions. Throw your hot takes out there. Step up, speak out, and be heard!