https://chargerswire.usatoday.com/2022/01/04/chargers-raiders-preview-derek-carr-justin-herbert-snf-nfl/

6 key things to know about Chargers' Week 18 opponent: Raiders
Gavino Borquez
January 4, 2022 1:20 pm PT

The Chargers and Raiders are set to meet at Allegiant Stadium in a
do-or-die affair, as the winner will earn a trip to the playoffs.

Here are six key things to know about Las Vegas ahead of the Week 18 bout.

One of the hottest teams

The Raiders are riding a three-game win streak, with victories coming
over the Browns, Broncos, and Colts.

How they got here?

The Raiders have been carried by their defense. Amid the last three
games, Las Vegas ranks first in total defense (218.7 yards per game),
eighth in scoring (15.7 points per game), third in passing (142.3 ypg),
and second in rushing (76.3 ypg).

Former Chargers playing vital roles

The defensive unit has benefited from the presence of Denzel Perryman
and Casey Hayward. Perryman, who was named to his first Pro Bowl, has
145 tackles, five tackles for loss, three passes defended, and a forced
fumble. On the other hand, Hayward has been beaten for just 298 total
yards and one touchdown on 604 coverage snaps in 2021.

Below par offense

While Derek Carr has efficiently distributed the wealth, currently
possessing the fourth-most passing yards (4,618), he has struggled to
guide his unit in the end zone. As a result, the Raiders have only
topped 23 points dating back to Oct. 25. Furthermore, their running game
ranks fourth-worst in the NFL (90.2 ypg) and in the red zone, converting
50.91% of their trips.

Supposed to get top target back

One of the factors in the Raiders’ substandard offense is the absence of
Darren Waller. Waller has missed the last five games due to back and
knee injuries along with COVID-19, with his previous action coming on
Thanksgiving. In 10 games, Waller has 53 receptions for 643 yards and
two touchdowns.

Holding down the fort

While the Raiders offense has greatly missed Waller, it has immensely
benefited from the presence of Hunter Renfrow. Arguably one of the
slickest route-runners in the league, Renfrow recently topped the
1,000-yard mark (1,025), is one reception shy of 100, and has seven
touchdowns to go along with it.