This is the key matchup that will likely play a major role on the outcome of the Buffalo Bills Week 4 matchup against the Las Vegas Raiders.
The history between the Buffalo Bills and the Raiders franchise dates all the way back to 1960 when these two teams first met. Over that time, the Raiders have moved around from Oakland to Los Angeles and back to Oakland. This year though will be their first season in Las Vegas and the Bills will be on the road to face the Raiders in their new home.
These are two franchises that at one times was in that top tier in the league and have been trying to regain some of that magic. The Bills seem to be a little further in the process, with two playoff trips the past three years, but the Raiders have brought in a lot of young talent over the past two years with general manager Mike Mayock and head coach Jon Gruden running the show.
What is the key matchup for the Buffalo Bills in Week 4 against the Las Vegas Raiders?
The key matchup in this game is going to be the interior of the Las Vegas Raiders against the interior of the Buffalo Bills defensive line. The Raiders are bringing back all five starters but the guards and center group of this team is one of the best in the league.
The Raiders have former Bills guard Richie Incognito on the left side, Rodney Hudson at center and Gabe Jackson at right guard. While Hudson was the only player to make the Pro Bowl last year, the Raiders two guards played very well a season ago.
The good news for the Bills is that they have great talent, and more importantly, depth at defensive tackle. This could be the deciding factor in the game and the pressure will be on starters Ed Oliver and Star Lotulelei. However the coaching staff will also have Harrison Phillips, Quinton Jefferson, Vernon Butler and even potentially A.J. Epenesa to rotate through.
The fact that the Bills have so many players that can produce and can enter the game should not only keep everyone fresh but also wear down that offensive line. The more pressure the Buffalo Bills can bring from the interior, collapse the pocket and disrupt Derek Carr will certainly help their chances to win in Week 4.