Alexander Mattison set to start season finale
The Las Vegas Raiders’ flux and injury issues of the 2024 season is expected to carry over to the season finale when the 4-12 team hosts the 10-6 Los Angeles Chargers at Allegiant Stadium. Kickoff is set at 1:25 p.m. PT.
Las Vegas coach Antonio Pierce said Friday that Ameer Abdullah is doubtful to play in the game. He was later ruled out of the game. He missed practice all week with a foot injury he suffered late in a Week 17 win at New Orleans. Abdullah had the best day of his 10-season career in the game as he had a career-high 115 yards on 20 carries. It was the first time this season a Raiders’ running back had a 100-yard rushing game. Abdullah’s season ends with him gaining 311 yards on 66 carries for an per carry average of 4.7 yards. He will be a free agent in 2025.
It’s been a tough season for Raiders’ running back Josh Jacobs departed for Green Bay in free agency. This week he was named to the Pro Bowl.
Jacobs’ expected replacement Zamir White was a disappointment and he finished the season on the injured reserve. Free-agent addition Alexander Mattison, who is expected to start Sunday, was up-and-down. Young Sincere McCormick flashed late, but he is on the injured reserve.
The position is expected to be an area of need in the offseason.
Chris Collier and Dylan Laube could also get carries along with Mattison on Sunday.
Guard Jordan Meredith is questionable with an ankle injury. If he cant play Jackson Powers-Johnson will start for him and Andre James will play center. Also, starting nickel cornerback Nate Hobbs is questionable to play with an illness. he missed Week 16 with an illness.