Colts vs. Raiders: Week 4 key matchups

Oakland comes to town to try and right the ship against the Colts on Sunday. These are the key matchups that will decide who wins the game.

The Colts are a team that needs to be feared. They have a complete roster with stars on both sides of the ball. But they come into this week severely injured facing an inferior squad. Because of that, these are the key matchups that will decide this contest.

Marlon Mack vs. Raiders’ second level

It seems like Mack is the only starter who seems to be healthy right now. The offensive line will do a good job blocking the Raiders’ front four, but after that is up to Mack. If he can break free from the second level, he could have a big day and carry the Colts to a win.

Colts tight ends vs. Raiders linebackers

If T.Y. Hilton can’t go in this one, the Colts would be down their top two receivers for this game. That would mean the tight ends would get a lot more passes. Expect Jack Doyle, Eric Ebron, and Mo Alie-Cox to get plenty of opportunities in this one.

They would likely get the ball behind Oakland’s linebackers in zone coverage. Doing that will open up deep shots on the outside later on in the game. The tight ends will be especially crucial in the red zone, as they are a favorite target of Jacoby Brissett in that area of the field.

Colts linebackers vs. Raiders tight ends

The linebackers have not done a good job in zone coverage. They don’t get back deep enough and allow tight ends to catch the balls right over their heads. Darren Waller is a good one for the Raiders, so the Colts must keep him in check over the middle.

If the Colts can win all of these matchups, there’s no reason why they can’t win this game on Sunday.