X

Have feedback / suggestions? Let us know!

NFL Oakland RaidersSan Diego Chargers

Chargers vs. Raiders: Top 5 Matchups To Watch

1 of 11

Chargers vs. Raiders: Top 5 Matchups To Watch

san diego chargers
Getty Images

Despite the fact that the Oakland Raiders (0-4) and the San Diego Chargers (4-1) are headed in opposite directions, this Sunday's divisional matchup should be a good one. Divisional games are typically competitive just for the fact that both teams know one another so well. And when you have teams like the Raiders and Chargers that hate each other so much it's even better. Check out the top five matchups for this week's game.

5. Justin Tuck vs. D.J. Fluker

justin tuck raiders packers
Getty Images

5. Justin Tuck vs. D.J. Fluker

justin tuck raiders packers
Getty Images

Even though Raiders defensive end Justin Tuck is approaching the end of his career, he still possesses the ability to put pressure on the quarterback. He's also still effective as a run-stopper, which means Chargers second-year right tackle D.J. Fluker could have his hands full this Sunday.

4. Brandon Flowers vs. James Jones

brandon flowers chargers bills
Getty Images

4. Brandon Flowers vs. James Jones

brandon flowers chargers bills
Getty Images

Chargers cornerback Brandon Flowers has played very well so far this season after being cut by the Chiefs during the offseason. He'll likely have the task of covering Raiders wide receiver James Jones who came over from the Packers as a free agent this past offseason. Jones has hauled in 21 receptions for 272 yards and two touchdowns this season, but I don't think Flowers will have a problem covering him this week.

3. Darren McFadden vs. Chargers' Run Defense

darren mcfadden raiders dolphins london
Getty Images

3. Darren McFadden vs. Chargers' Run Defense

darren mcfadden raiders dolphins london
Getty Images

It won't be easy for Raiders starting running back Darren McFadden this week, as he gets ready to go up against the Chargers and their ninth ranked run defense. McFadden is only averaging 3.4 yards per carry and has yet to rush for 100 yards in a game the season. If the Raiders are going to win this week, they need McFadden to run well.

2. Khalil Mack vs. Antonio Gates

khalil mack raiders
Getty Images

2. Khalil Mack vs. Antonio Gates

khalil mack raiders
Getty Images

Raiders rookie linebacker Khalil Mack will likely have the task of covering the ageless Antonio Gates of the Chargers. While many people thought Gates could lose his starting job this season, he's flourished while averaging a touchdown per game so far in 2014.

1. Philip Rivers vs. Raiders' Pass Defense

philip rivers chargers
Getty Images

1. Philip Rivers vs. Raiders' Pass Defense

philip rivers chargers
Getty Images

As bad as the Raiders are this season, they still boast the NFL's fourth-ranked pass defense. On the other hand, Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers is having an MVP-caliber season so far in 2014.