The Raiders got their confidence and playoff hopes back after that comeback vs the Chiefs on Thursday night last week. The Bills have been strong on defense but this is a tough matchup for them – they’re down one of their starting cornerbacks (EJ Gaines) a week after their defense gave up 384 yards and 3 TDs to Jameis Winston. I’m convinced Carr and the Raiders passing offense are about to string together success in the passing game and that Marshawn Lynch being suspended today lets them get back to what they do best – spread teams out and trust Carr to beat teams down the field. The Raiders’ O-line had a strong showing vs KC and should continue that against Buffalo.
The Bills win games with strong defense and running the ball with McCoy and Taylor – they do not have many weapons in the passing game, especially with Charles Clay out again today. If you limit McCoy (who is averaging 3.4 yards per carry) and do a good job of spying Tyrod Taylor then this offense becomes extremely limited. The addition of NaVorro Bowman helps in the running game and Khalil Mack should be dialed in playing in front of his hometown. The Raiders seem like they’re about to turn the corner and given the extra time to prepare, the early flight in to adjust to the eastern timezone, and them being 11-4 ATS as road underdogs under Jack Del Rio I’m riding Carr and the Raiders to get the wing today. Raiders +3 (2.5 units, but the 1/2).
*Plays are rated 1 to 5 units in order of confidence.
