While we await the Browns schedule being released, the Raiders present one of many revenge game options
The NFL Schedule will be released on Wednesday. Everyone knows who the Cleveland Browns opponents will be in 2025 and the tough list of quarterbacks on that schedule. They’ll play their divisional foes at least twice and will take on the AFC East, NFC North, AFC South and one AFC/NFC West opponent each.
As far as the AFC West opponent they will play, it will be the Las Vegas Raiders, whom the team lost to early last season. It was a winnable game for Cleveland but the two teams will run it back again this upcoming season.
How did the last meeting go between the two teams?
This game was strange for many reasons. Wide receiver Davante Adams was out, same goes for star defensive end Maxx Crosby. Somehow, the Raiders were able to pull out a victory. The offensive line struggled to protect quarterback Deshaun Watson, the defensive line struggled to get consistent pressure, and was gashed in the running game. Despite being favored, the Browns found a way to lose a very winnable game.
It was a clear sign of things to come with this loss in Week 4 of the 2024 season.
What changed for the Las Vegas Raiders after that game?
A lot happened in Sin City after that game. The Raiders ended up finishing 4-13, head coach Antonio Pierce and general manager Tom Telesco were let go. When you talk about a franchise that has gone through multiple regime changes, the Raiders are near the top of that conversation.
Future Hall of Fame head coach Pete Carroll was hired after being away for a season and the team hired assistant general manager John Spytek from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
For the roster, the offseason was productive under the new regime. The team traded with the Seattle Seahawks to acquire quarterback Geno Smith, reuniting him with Carroll. Signing linebacker Elandon Roberts, safety Jeremy Chinn to help reinforce the defense despite losing safety Tre’Von Moehrig and linebacker Divine Deablo. Drafting running back and Heisman finalist Ashton Jeanty will help develop a solid run game led by former Ohio State Buckeyes offensive coordinator Chip Kelly with a solid offensive line.
If you follow football closely, Carroll’s teams tend to outperform their expectations. High floor, low ceiling.
Time and Network Prediction for Browns vs Raiders
This game has Thursday night on Amazon potential. Considering how both teams might have minimal national television games, it seems even likely. A late game, 4 PM slot, on CBS is another possibility, but Thursday night on Amazon makes the most sense.