Here are four things to know about the Colts vs. Raiders matchup, plus a prediction.
Up next for the Indianapolis Colts is a Week 5 matchup with the Las Vegas Raiders.
To see how the Colts and Raiders stack up and who has the advantage in certain key areas, you can find that here.
But for added insight, Levi Damien, the managing editor of Raiders Wire, answered several of our questions about this year’s Raiders team.
What are the early impressions of the Pete Carroll, Geno Smith-led Raiders?
Damien: Depends on how early we’re talking. Very early – as in offseason and training camp – were very good. Love the vibe Pete brings to the team and the facility. He’s just a jovial guy. And it’s genuine. He also has the respect of everyone without needing to command it. Geno is not dissimilar. Throws a gorgeous ball and is great to speak with and seems genuine.
As for my early season impressions – as in actual games – it’s not quite as positive. I still think Pete knows what he’s doing. I’d say my concerns are with Geno acclimating to the new offense. When he was in Seattle, he had a couple years before he had to step into a starting role. He’s not seeing the field well so far. Leading the league in interceptions is the result.
What’s been the strength of the Raiders through four games?
Damien: Maxx Crosby. I know you were probably thinking like a position group or an aspect of the game. But really it’s just Maxx. He’s the strength of the team. He single-handedly kept the Raiders leading last week with the offense turning it over three times in the first half. They only had a real shot to win it because of him. Yeah, Ashton Jeanty had a breakout game, but even with that, they would have been blown out without Maxx terrorizing Caleb Williams fresh off winning NFC Player of the Week.
On the flip side, what’s been a weakness that opponents have exploited?
Damien: The offensive line. They had a decent week last week because they were going against the worst run defense in the league. But the first three games, they were so bad Ashton Jeanty literally had more yards after contact (145) than yards rushing (144). That is something you just don’t see. Jordan Meredith has been struggling mightily at center, DJ Glaze has not done well at right tackle, and now their best lineman, LT Kolton Miller, is on injured reserve. Enjoy.
Who is an under-the-radar player for Colts fans to know?
Damien: Prior to the start of the season, I was saying Tre Tucker. Then he went out and led the league in touchdown receptions in the first three games, so I’m not really sure how much he’s flying under the radar anymore, but I’ll go with him on offense.
On defense, let’s go with Jeremy Chinn. He plays both safety and nickel cornerback for the Raiders, so expect to see him around the ball a lot.
Prediction time: Who wins and why?
Damien: The Colts win. Why? Well, I can only give you half the reason why. The Raiders side of things. That offensive line is a screen door that fell off the hinges. Their secondary has had a few lapses as well. Usually involving Kyu Blu Kelly and Isaiah Pola-Mao. Hell, even the special teams have been bad. This is more your area, but from the looks of things, the Colts should be able to exploit these issues.
