Las Vegas brings an NFL-leading eight sacks and a 50% pressure rate into Sunday's Week 3 game at New Orleans, despite blitzing just 7.4% of the time. The Saints held Baltimore to 108 rushing yards in Week 2, making both teams' run defense a key matchup.
The Raiders have three interceptions through two games, tied for second in the league, and a +2 turnover margin. They are allowing 23.5 points and just over 100 rushing yards per game, ranking 16th against the run. Under defensive coordinator Rob Leonard, they have switched from a 4-3 to a 3-4; the article says simulated-pressure looks make quarterbacks hold the ball longer.
The preview flags the Saints' offensive-line protection—particularly with Kelvin Banks Jr. not playing for a while—and their ability to establish the run as important. The writer also cautions that Las Vegas' first two opponents, the Chargers and Dolphins, may be among the league's worst. New Orleans has allowed 5.0 yards per carry through two weeks, while its opponents have converted 9 of 22 third downs (40.9%).
