The Los Angeles Chargers kick off the 2022 regular season against the Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday, Sept. 11 at 1:25 p.m. PT.
Who is going to come out victorious?
Here is a look at the predictions from each of our writers at Chargers Wire:
Gavino's Pick:
The Chargers enter the season opener looking to get revenge on the Raiders after their playoff hopes were dashed in the regular-season finale in 2021. On offense, it all starts with QB Justin Herbert and his arsenal of pass-catchers – which includes returners WRs Keenan Allen, Mike Williams and Josh Palmer. The Raiders return starting cornerback from last season, Nate Hobbs, but they have two new starters in Rock-Ya-Sin and Anthony Averett. This is a good opportunity to exploit a young and unproven cornerback group. On defense, it all starts up front with the dynamic EDGEs Joey Bosa and Khalil Mack, who have the perfect opportunity to apply the heat early and often against an offensive line that may be one of the worst units on paper in the NFL. On the back end, while J.C. Jackson is doubtful, the Chargers have the talent to slow the Raiders’ pass-catchers, which includes superstar wideout, Davante Adams. It will likely require bracket coverage as opposed to leaving either Michael Davis or Asante Samuel Jr. on an island with him. But when you have constant pressure up front and the extra layer of coverage from Derwin James or Nasir Adderley, the Bolts should be fine.
Chargers: 31
Raiders: 21
Alex's Pick
With J.C. Jackson doubtful, the Chargers are going to have to rely on their pass rush getting home against a questionable Raiders offensive line to limit the damage Derek Carr, Davante Adams, and the rest of Vegas’ passing game can do. On the other side of the ball, Justin Herbert should have a nice opportunity to carve up the Raiders secondary, assuming the right side of the offensive line holds up against Maxx Crosby and Chandler Jones. On paper, the Chargers have more talent, and I think Joey Bosa and Khalil Mack prove to be the difference. But it is a rivalry game, so I expect it to be close.
Chargers: 31
Raiders: 27
Valentina's Pick
It’s the ultimate rematch as the Chargers and Raiders face off in the season opener on Sunday. You can argue that both teams aren’t given the hype they deserve. Los Angeles is a legitimate Super Bowl contender this year. Meanwhile, Las Vegas made the playoffs last season, despite all the trials and tribulations they suffered.
The Raiders’ offense is revamped with the addition of superstar wide receiver Davante Adams so it won’t exactly be an easy win, especially since cornerback J.C. Jackson is doubtful due to an ankle issue. Nevertheless, the Chargers still have a strong defense with new additions like star edge defender Khalil Mack and defensive tackles Austin Johnson and Sebastian Joseph-Day.
I think it’ll be a closer game than Chargers fans would like, but the Bolts will come out on top. And to make the victory a little sweeter, Los Angeles is going to win by a field goal.
Chargers: 27
Raiders: 24
Cole's Pick
This classic AFC West showdown will not be a repeat of last year’s heartbreak in Week 18. Justin Herbert has one of the most balanced receiving arsenals in the NFL. Las Vegas also added playmakers, most notably All-Pro receiver Davante Adams, but the Chargers are in a better position to guard him, Darren Waller, and Hunter Renfrow than they were a year ago. The defense is better ascribed to Brandon Staley’s defensive philosophy from an athleticism standpoint, while the secondary should be improved despite missing star cornerback J.C. Jackson. The game should be high-scoring and close down to the wire.
Chargers: 31
Raiders: 27
