The Seattle Seahawks have a golden opportunity to make a statement against the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 10. Seattle is coming off a quieter offensive performance against the Arizona Cardinals, but this matchup presents a chance for the Seahawks to get back on track in a big way.
The Raiders have one of the worst defenses in the NFL, particularly when it comes to stopping the run. Meanwhile, rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza is preparing for his first NFL start against a Seattle defense that has been one of the toughest units in the league.
I expect the Seahawks to take advantage of both matchups. Here are four bold predictions for Sunday's game.
Bold Prediction No. 4: Jadarian Price scores his first NFL touchdown
This could finally be the game when Jadarian Price gets into the end zone for the first time in his NFL career. It's been a challenging rookie season for the first-round pick, who has yet to find his footing in Seattle's backfield. However, this matchup could be exactly what he needs to change the trajectory of his season.
The Raiders have struggled mightily against opposing running backs, and Price should have opportunities to make an impact. With Zach Charbonnet also back in the backfield, Seattle has more options to attack Las Vegas. It is expected Price will take advantage of his opportunities and finally get that first NFL touchdown.
Bold Prediction No. 3: Jaxon Smith-Njigba records 10+ catches, 125+ yards, and at least one TD
Even though Seattle should have plenty of success running the football, that doesn't mean Jaxon Smith-Njigba won't have a monster afternoon.
JSN is coming off a relatively quiet performance against the Cardinals, finishing with seven catches for 51 yards without a touchdown. That is not the kind of production we've grown accustomed to seeing from one of the NFL's best wide receivers.
I expect a much different performance against Las Vegas. The Raiders have struggled to contain opposing offenses. I think he gets back to dominating opposing secondaries.
Bold Prediction No. 2: Seahawks' rushing attack finally has a monster game
The Raiders are allowing a league-leading 151.2 rushing yards per game. That's an invitation for Seattle to establish its ground game and take advantage of one of the NFL's worst run defenses. Seattle averages 110 yards on the ground.
The Seahawks have yet to consistently get their rushing attack going, but this is the perfect opportunity to change that. With rookie Jadarian Price and Zach Charbonnet back from injury, Seattle has the personnel to make life miserable for Las Vegas. It shouldn't matter who is getting the carries. I expect the Seahawks to pound the rock throughout the afternoon and finish with close to 200 rushing yards.
And remember, I still expect Smith-Njigba to have a monster game through the air. Seattle could realistically finish with more than 450 total yards of offense if everything goes according to plan.
Bold Prediction No. 1: Fernando Mendoza has a nightmare game in his first NFL start
Welcome to the NFL, Fernando Mendoza.
The rookie quarterback is getting his first opportunity to lead the Raiders after the organization made a major change at the position. Kirk Cousins is back with the Minnesota Vikings. Unfortunately, his first start comes against a Seahawks defense that can make life extremely difficult for opposing quarterbacks.
Mendoza does have some talented tight ends to work with, but Las Vegas' receiving corps is underwhelming. Seattle should be able to make things uncomfortable for the rookie, particularly if its pass rush can consistently generate pressure.
It wouldn't be surprising if Mendoza throws a touchdown pass at some point. However, I expect the Raiders' offense to struggle for most of the afternoon.
The prediction is that Mendoza finishes with fewer than 175 passing yards and completes less than 65% of his attempts. His first NFL start will be a difficult learning experience, and Seattle's defense will be the biggest reason why.