The Las Vegas Raiders are preparing for a difficult Week 10 matchup as they host the reigning Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks, according to Raiders Wire.
Although the Seahawks currently hold a 5-4 record, their previous losses were against formidable opponents with a combined record of 21-5, as noted by the Raiders team profile.
A primary concern for the Raiders is the Seattle defense, which currently ranks as the number one unit in the NFL, per the report from Raiders Wire.
The Seahawks have allowed the fewest yards in the league and maintain the top-ranked pass defense alongside a run defense that surrenders only 3.4 yards per attempt, as reported by the outlets.
Furthermore, the Seattle defense allows an average of only 18 points per game, placing them fourth in the league in that category, according to the Seahawks team profile.
Tactical familiarity also plays a role, as Raiders head coach Klint Kubiak previously served as the offensive coordinator for the Seahawks during their recent Super Bowl victory, as documented by Raiders Wire.
While this background provides unique insight, analysts suggest it may be easier for the Seattle defense to capitalize on their knowledge of the current Raiders system than vice versa, per the coverage.
The Raiders must also contend with wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba, who has already surpassed 1,000 receiving yards this season, as reported by Raiders Wire.
With nine touchdowns to his name, Smith-Njigba is currently performing at an Offensive Player of the Year level, according to the outlets.
The Raiders defensive secondary faces a significant challenge in attempting to contain such an unstoppable offensive threat during Sunday’s game, as noted by Raiders Wire.