The Las Vegas Raiders are gearing up to face the Cleveland Browns in a crucial Week 4 matchup at Allegiant Stadium on Sunday. Both teams are in dire need of a rebound after disappointing performances. The Raiders pulled off an emotional upset against the Baltimore Ravens in Week 2, only to falter dramatically against the Carolina Panthers in Week 3. Initially viewed as a strength, the Raiders’ defense has been hampered by injuries early in the season.
Injury Concerns for Cleveland
Cleveland is also dealing with significant injury issues. Star edge rusher Myles Garrett is pushing through foot injuries, while the team will be without offensive lineman Wyatt Teller for an extended period due to a knee injury. As both teams enter Week 4 with challenges, we’ll analyze their prospects going into this pivotal matchup.
Raiders’ Quarterback Situation
Following a rough 36-22 loss to the Panthers, the Raiders made the decision to bench quarterback Gardner Minshew during the game. Minshew finished with 214 yards, one touchdown, and one interception before being replaced by second-year player Aidan O’Connell. However, head coach Antonio Pierce indicated that Minshew would remain the starter against the Browns, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.
For the Raiders to succeed, Minshew will need to utilize a talented receiving corps more effectively. Meanwhile, Maxx Crosby must overcome a minor injury to pressure Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson. Both teams are struggling offensively but boast strong defenses; currently, there’s no clear advantage for the Raiders in the quarterback department. The Browns have a superior running game and defensive talent. This game is expected to be low-scoring and may come down to the final moments, but the Raiders could have the slight edge.
Historical Context and Current Stats
Historically, the Raiders lead the all-time regular-season series against the Browns, 15-10, since 1970, and they hold an 8-7 home record against them. The Raiders have won their last four matchups, the most recent being a narrow 16-14 victory in Cleveland on December 20, 2021. Following Week 3, the Raiders’ offense ranks 21st in the NFL, averaging 294.7 yards per game. They are fourth in passing, but dead last in rushing, tied for 17th in points scored.
On defense, the Raiders rank 30th in total defense, 23rd in passing, 29th in rushing, and 27th in points allowed. The best teams thrive in adversity, and both the Raiders and Browns are eager to demonstrate their competitive spirit this week.
