The Atlanta Falcons (6-7) head to Allegiant Stadium to face the Las Vegas Raiders (2-11) on Monday Night Football in a matchup of two teams with contrasting 2024 seasons. Kickoff is set for 8:30 p.m. EST on ESPN.
Atlanta leads the all-time series 8-7 and has won the last five meetings, including a dominant 43-6 victory in their most recent encounter in 2020. Both teams enter Week 15 after disappointing losses: the Falcons were routed by the Vikings 42-21, while the Raiders fell to the Buccaneers 28-13.
For the Falcons, a win keeps their NFC South playoff hopes alive as they continue to chase a wild card spot. Meanwhile, the Raiders, already out of postseason contention, are playing for pride and development under interim head coach Antonio Pierce.
Atlanta’s pass rush has come alive in recent weeks, led by second-year linebacker Arnold Ebiketie. With three sacks in the past two games (and four total this season), Ebiketie has been instrumental in the Falcons’ defensive resurgence. The team tallied nine sacks over the last two games, nearly doubling their season total after managing just 10 sacks in their first 11 contests.
Las Vegas’ quarterback position is shrouded in uncertainty. Aidan O’Connell, who injured his left knee last week, is questionable. If healthy, O’Connell could face an Atlanta defense that thrives on pressuring the quarterback. If he cannot go, former Falcon Desmond Ridder may start against the team where he played 13 games last season.
Kirk Cousins has struggled with turnovers recently, throwing six interceptions in his last two games. The Raiders’ defense, despite their struggles, has shown flashes of playmaking ability, recording nine sacks and two interceptions over the past two weeks. Without defensive end Maxx Crosby (ankle), their ability to pressure Cousins will be critical.
Injury Updates
Falcons
•RB Jase McClellan (knee) is on injured reserve. Carlos Washington Jr. was signed to bolster depth behind Bijan Robinson and Tyler Allgeier.
•ILB Troy Andersen (knee) and WR Casey Washington (concussion) are unlikely to play.
Raiders
•DE Maxx Crosby (ankle) is out, a significant blow to the Raiders’ defensive front.
•QB Aidan O’Connell (knee) is questionable.
•CB Nate Hobbs (ankle) and RB Alexander Mattison (ankle) are set to return, providing much-needed reinforcements.
Atlanta has won the last five matchups, including the most lopsided game in series history (43-6 in 2020). The series has featured high-scoring affairs, including a 50-19 Raiders win in 1979, the highest total by either team.
The Falcons’ playoff hopes and improved pass rush make them the favorites, especially against a banged-up Raiders team. If Cousins limits turnovers, Atlanta should control this game. The Raiders, however, could make it interesting if they capitalize on Cousins’ mistakes and find stability at quarterback.
