In their last matchup of the season, the Las Vegas Raiders will face off against the Los Angeles Chargers. This is a long-standing rivalry, but winning this game may not be beneficial. Currently, Sin City holds the eighth pick in the 2025 draft and will likely change after this week.
Losing this game would primarily benefit the team’s draft position. Additionally, fans who desire a new head coach in 2025 would also benefit from the loss. However, losing to the division rival is never something any fan wants.
Draft Order: To Lose Or Not To Lose If You’re The Raiders…
Currently, the Silver and Black have four wins on the season and are tied with four teams. This is the New York Jets, Carolina Panthers, Chicago Bears, and Jacksonville Jaguars. Evidently, if these teams win and Sin City loses, the pick could potentially rise to the fifth overall spot.
This week is crucial in determining where the Raiders will secure draft capital that could turn around the team’s fortunes. All of the competing teams with four wins have a chance to defeat their opponents this week. The Jets are facing off against the Dolphins, who have slim playoff hopes and possibly no starting quarterback. The Jaguars matchup is against a team that was just blown out by the New York Giants in Week 17—the Indianapolis Colts.
In a dream situation, the fifth overall pick will end up in the hands of Las Vegas. There are other potential ways for the team’s position to improve, including the strength of schedule tiebreakers. A victory over the Chargers eliminates the potential for all of this.
A Loss Means Antonio Pierce Could Be Fired
Head coach Antonio Pierce has impeded the success of the Raiders in his first year. While it is not entirely his fault, Pierce will likely be the main scapegoat. Consistent blowouts every week are unacceptable no matter the talent on the roster.
Mike Vrabel is a phenomenal fit in Las Vegas for the #Raiders. Would be a no brainer hire
— Tristen Kuhn (@KuhnTristen) December 27, 2024
In contrast, Las Vegas could be the new home for former Titans coach Mike Vrabel. Vrabel holds a significant relationship with Tom Brady and enjoys high respect. No unworthy coach receives a Coach of the Year award. Comparatively, he has more years of experience as a head coach than Pierce. A different coach could possibly pay dividends for future success.
This week is the most important matchup of the entire season for the future. A loss means a higher draft pick and possibly a new head coach. Defeating the division rival could be bittersweet and impact the possibility of changing the franchise.
*Top Photo: Getty Images
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