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The Las Vegas Raiders are hoping to move to 2-0 as they take on the Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday.
The Chargers are coming off a bad loss to the Arizona Cardinals, and they will be in slight desperation mode to avoid falling to 0-2. The Raiders know how important divisional games are, and they'll need to be sharp to hold off a Chargers team that really needs a win.
Sep 13, 2026; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Kirk Cousins (8) walks onto the field during the game against the Miami Dolphins at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Brytus-Imagn Images. | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
Los Angeles could be without some of its top options in this game, giving some Raiders a chance to put up big numbers. Who might stand out for the Silver and Black?
Let's break down a few players who may be stars after this game.
Defensive Tackle Adam Butler
Adam Butler | Darrell Craig Haarris, On SI
The Chargers usually struggle on the offensive line, but losing their starting center before the season starts is a major blow.
Without Tyler Biadasz to hold down the middle, Butler will see a backup center in his place. The quick-moving interior pass-rusher should feast, getting into the backfield constantly to stop ball carriers and put pressure on Justin Herbert.
Butler has been one of the most underrated players in the NFL over the last few seasons in Las Vegas, and he has a chance at big numbers this Sunday. We'll see if he takes advantage of his matchup.
Cornerback Eric Stokes
May 20, 2026; Henderson, NV, USA; Las Vegas Raiders cornerback Eric Stokes (5) speaks during a news conference during organized team activities at Intermountain Health Performance Center. Mandatory Credit: Candice Ward-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
We highlighted Stokes last week as a player who could perform well, and he played a solid game against the Miami Dolphins.
If Ladd McConkey misses the game, Stokes won't see the Chargers' best pass-catcher. This opens up the door for Stokes to line up against a receiver that will be advantageous to him.
The Raiders need to force turnovers against Herbert and the Chargers' offense, and while Stokes still has not recorded an interception since 2021, he has a chance to jump in front of a few footballs and make plays. The team needs him to have another good game.
Tight End Michael Mayer
Aug 13, 2026; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Las Vegas Raiders tight end Michael Mayer (87) carries the ball against the Arizona Cardinals in the first half at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
With Brock Bowers still on the mend, Mayer expects to get a fair share of targets at tight end.
Trey McBride feasted on this Chargers defense last week, and it is evident that defending tight ends is going to be a problem for them all season long. This should mean we see Mayer step up and make some plays in the passing game.
Fresh off a contract extension, Mayer will look to make his presence felt in this one. If the Chargers keep struggling, Mayer will take advantage.
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