Raiders face Jets in high-stakes matchup for struggling offense

The Raiders enter Sunday's game with a financial and performance paradox: their opponent, Geno Smith, earns nearly $15 million more this season than Las Vegas's starting quarterback. The Jets (2-5) host the Raiders (3-4) at 10 a.m. PT at MetLife Stadium, with coverage on CBS, Paramount+, and Raider Nation Radio 920 AM. This contest serves as a critical evaluation point for a Las Vegas squad in the midst of a four-game losing streak.

The franchise paid a steep price for Smith's tenure. After acquiring him via a third-round pick and signing him to a $75 million extension, the Raiders finished 3-14 last season. They traded him to New York in the offseason, absorbing $16.2 million of his salary. Las Vegas then signed free agent Kirk Cousins to a veteran minimum salary of $1.3 million, with a $10 million guaranteed bonus due in the offseason. The Falcons absorb the bulk of his current salary. Despite this bargain, fans are demanding a change after Cousins's recent struggles, though he leads the NFL with 16 touchdown passes.

Running back Ashton Jeanty faces a favorable matchup against a Jets defense ranked 24th in the league by DVOA. New York allowed Miami's Ollie Gordon a career-high 103 yards last week. Jeanty, currently averaging 3.1 yards per carry, has also contributed as a receiver, tying for the team lead with 34 receptions for 312 yards and three touchdowns. Head coach Klint Kubiak expects to feature Jeanty heavily, acknowledging the offensive line's struggles.

The offensive line, ranked 31st in adjusted line yards, has been a primary source of criticism. Kubiak noted that everything is on the table to fix the unit, including personnel changes. Rookie third-round pick Trey Zuhn may get a start, as the current guards have struggled. Spencer Burford has regressed on the left, while Caleb Rogers was targeted by Aaron Donald and the Rams in a 35-21 loss last week.

Defensive lineman Jonah Laulu, a franchise record holder with 86 tackles over his first two seasons, was released last week. The Tennessee Titans claimed him off waivers. The Raiders moved on to prioritize size, activating second-year player JJ Pegues and Tim Keenan. Both weigh over 325 pounds, compared to Laulu's 289, addressing a specific weakness against the run.

Kubiak stated that the production from the offense is there but emphasized that it is a team game. Maxx Crosby, the defensive end, highlighted the need for better energy in the run defense, which currently ranks 31st. The Raiders must improve their tackling against the Jets to stabilize their defense.

Receivers remain a focal point. Brock Bowers has operated primarily in the slot or wideout position, catching less than 15% of snaps in a traditional tight end role. Tre Tucker has emerged as a reliable secondary target, recording 10 catches for 200 yards and three touchdowns in the past two games. His speed offers a viable option against the Jets' secondary.

The game airs on CBS and Paramount+. The Raiders are not a heavy favorite, with the Jets listed as 1.5-point favorites. Kubiak's staff is monitoring the offensive line's performance closely, with potential roster moves possible before the November 10 trade deadline.