Who is the Guy?

Despite the Chargers' attempts to build a more balanced offensive attack, the team's success hinges on Justin Herbert's performance and production. The sixth-year pro is completing 67.3 percent of his passes with a 19:9 touchdown-to-interception ratio and a 94.2 passer rating. Although his overall efficiency is down from his usual numbers, Herbert's pinpoint passing and playmaking potential give him a chance to take over the game at any point against the Raiders. Given his potential impact as a top 5 quarterback, the defensive game plan should focus on disrupting Herbert's timing and rhythm within the pocket.

Know His Name

Derwin James Jr. is the designated playmaker in Jesse Minter's defensive scheme. The All-Pro safety will align in various spots near the box to maximize his big-play potential as a run defender and blitz specialist. James' speed, explosiveness and savvy give him a chance to make a "splash" play (turnover, sack, or tackles-for-loss) at a pivotal moment. With Minter intent on putting the All-Pro in a prime position to make a game-changing play, the Raiders must be aware of No. 3's whereabouts at all times.

Don't Sleep On…

Tuli Tuipulotu is not a household name, but the third-year pro leads the Chargers with eight sacks. As a high-motor defender with heavy hands and outstanding first-step quickness, he can win with power or finesse off the edge to harass quarterbacks into miscues and blunders. In a "see ball, get ball" defense, where hustle players are routinely rewarded for their efforts, Tuipulotu's relentlessness makes him a dangerous defender at the point of attack.

Under Pressure

As an instinctive tackling machine with exceptional instincts, awareness and diagnostic skills, Daiyan Henley is big part of the Chargers' defensive puzzle. The third-year pro dominates the box area as an A-plus run defender and pass rusher, but it is his energy and passion that sets the tone for unit.

Matchup to Watch

Bobby Hart and Jamaree Salyer vs. Maxx Crosby

The Chargers will need their offensive tackles to play at a high level to keep the perennial Pro Bowler from wrecking the game. As emergency fill-ins on a unit that has allowed 37 sacks, Hart and Salyer must find a way to win their one-on-one battles against Crosby and Co. to give Herbert a chance to attack from the pocket. If the Chargers are forced to keep a back in to chip or assist in protection, the Raiders gain extra defenders in coverage to neutralize an explosive collection of pass catchers on the perimeter.

Offensive Scheme

Greg Roman wants to feature a balanced attack to control the game and keep defenders guessing at all times. The veteran playcaller will mix in some quicks and play-action passes to complement a downhill running game that tests the middle of the frontline. With a dart thrower at quarterback, the diverse approach can produce fireworks when the Chargers get into a rhythm early in games.

Defensive Scheme

Jesse Minter wants his defenders to play an aggressive "bend but don't break" style that challenges opponents to drive the field on a series of short-to-intermediate throws and inside runs without a significant mistake. With outstanding discipline and great attention to detail, the Chargers' sound defensive strategy forces opponents into an uncomfortable contest that exposes the lack of patience from the quarterback and play caller who prefer a quick-strike approach.