It’s a Bay Area on Sunday afternoon as the Raiders return close to their old home to take on the 49ers in Santa Clara.
Raiders at 49ers Betting Preview
It’s a Bay Area on Sunday afternoon as the Raiders return close to their old home to take on the 49ers in Santa Clara. Jon Gruden’s squad looks to further tune up their squad in hopes of reaching the playoffs for the first time since 2016. Kyle Shanahan will have a further look at Trey Lance and Jimmy Garoppolo as he’s faced with the decision of who to start at quarterback come Week 1 of the regular season.
The kick-off for this game is scheduled for 4:00 pm EST at Levi’s Stadium. You can catch the game on the NFL Network or DAZN App.
When it comes to the NFL odds, San Francisco are favored at -230 on the moneyline, and Las Vegas are +190 underdogs. The 49ers are five-point favorites at -115. The total points for this game is set at 35.5.
Raiders Undefeated In Preseason So Far
Las Vegas has gotten off to a good start, albeit two exhibition games. They’ve knocked off both the Seahawks and Rams, with Nathan Peterman getting every snap at quarterback so far. I wouldn’t expect Derek Carr to see any playing time in this one, as QB Marcus Mariota still hasn’t seen the field either. Marota is dealing with a quadriceps injury currently, so it’s up in the air whether or not he’ll get any playing time on Sunday.
It feels like for now, Jon Gruden is more set on focusing on who the long-term backup behind Carr will be. Mariota started one game for the Raiders last season and completed 17/28 of his passes for a touchdown and an interception. Peterman has been with the Raiders since 2018 but has only attempted five passes in regular-season games since joining the team.
Quarterback Controversy Brewing In San Francisco
Move over, Jimmy Garoppolo; there may be a new sheriff in town? It certainly feels that way, as an Alex Smith-Colin Kaepernick type-dilemma is taking place before our eyes again.
First-round pick Trey Lance has taken the NFL by storm and in an exciting fashion. Lance is coming off another impressive outing last week against the Chargers, throwing for 102 yards and two touchdowns, and an interception. With Garoppolo coming off an injury-riddled 2020-2021 campaign, the pressure will be on Jimmy G to stay healthy, let alone perform like he did when he first joined San Francisco.
There’s not only a huge competition at quarterback but at running back as well. Raheem Mostert, rookie Trey Sermon, and Wayne Gallman Jr. There’s really no definitive answer on who’s going to receive the most touches this season, so that’s a battle to watch out for going forward.
Gallman rushed for 76 yards on 15 carries last week, but Trey Sermon was drafted as one of the best backs in 2021 coming out of Ohio State. Mostert is a seasoned vet and has been with the Niners since 2016. Most familiar with Kyle Shanahan’s offense, Mostert may have the upper hand for now.
The Pick
With Lance and Garoppolo expected to both see playing time in this game, I like siding with the 49ers, who have the clear edge at quarterback, even if Carr starts. Although the Raiders have played really well so far in the preseason, I’m comfortable laying the five points in this spot.
Take the 49ers -5 on the spread! For the best odds, head on over to BetUS, as they’re always among the most generous online sportsbooks!
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