This is going to be a tough game for the Raiders, who have a 5-6 record, falling below .500. During these last two weeks, the Raiders have looked like the Raiders of old. If they want to keep their chances of making the playoffs alive, Week 13 is a must-win.
During their first matchup in Week 5, the Chargers were killed by mistakes on special teams. The Raiders blocked two punts, with one resulting in a safety and the other being returned for a touchdown by Hiram Eugene.
A key factor in Week 5 was the running game. Michael Bush filled in for Darren McFadden and ran for just over 100 yards and a touchdown. The running game will be a huge factor in Week 13 as well.
McFadden has totaled just 16 rushing yards in the last two games, and it is pivotal that the Raiders get him going early and often against the Chargers this Sunday.
The Chargers give up the third least rushing yards per game. The Raiders have a tough task ahead of them because their main strength is running the football.
Despite the two-game losing streak, there might be some good news for Raider Nation.
Jason Campbell returns as the starting quarterback this week, due to an injured Bruce Gradkowski. Campbell filled in for Gradkowski in Week 5, and led the Raiders to a 35-27 victory.
Campbell was 13-of-19 for 159 yards, with a touchdown and no interceptions in Week 5. If the Raiders want to slow down the Chargers, Campbell must play mistake-free football as he did in Week 5.
The wild cards in this game will be the play of rookie Jacoby Ford and tight end Zach Miller.
Ford will be big both on special teams and as a receiver. Ford has stepp...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Oakland Raiders
