Raiders under 5.5 wins a strong value bet
Vaughn Dalzell and Trysta Krick discuss the outlook for the Raiders in 2026, explaining why Las Vegas could go under 5.5 wins despite a big offseason.
Video Transcript
The Raiders this offseason, Vaughn, did actually a lot to improve their roster.
They drafted Fernando Mendoza, added Kirk Cousins.
They fortified their defense.
They added some pieces to the offensive line.
Is Vegas sleeping on the Raiders this offseason and their moves?
Because it feels like what they've done is a little underrated.
Yeah, I mean, it's a very tough division that they're in.
We see the over is juiced right now, seeming like that's the catch.
And when you look at the schedule, they got two home games against the Dolphins in Week 1, Titans in Week 16 on the road, Saints in Week 3, Jets in Week 8, Browns in Week 12, Cardinals in Week 17.
That's six wins right there, Trista.
Boom, that easy, right?
I don't think so.
The defense does look better.
They still have Max Crosby, but the offense is what I'm worried about.
You said Kirk Cousins is in town, Fernando Mendoza.
How long does Kirk Cousins start?
We know that he's probably a better mentor than starter for this team, and he's being paid handsomely, so he will start.
But besides Brock Bowers and Ashton Gentry, I don't know where the offense is coming from.
Trey Tucker, Jalen Naylor, you got six other receivers on your roster that combined for 34 catches and one touchdown in their career.
I think this offense will be a mess this season, no matter who's under center.
So, and they might lose every AFC West game.
I think they'll be a good contender for number one seed.
They'll aim for a guy like Jeremiah Smith to pair with Mendoza, Bowers, and Gentry.
And then next year, they'll be an over bet.
But this year, for plus money, I'm going under.
