In his rookie season, Raiders linebacker Khalil Mack was terrific. He was one of the NFL’s best against the run, and he often put tremendous pressure on opposing quarterbacks.
However, he came up with just four sacks.
This season, with four games still to play, Mack already has nine sacks, the most by a Raider in a season since 2010 when Kamerion Wimbley had nine. Mack’s total matches that of Broncos’ Pro Bowl pass rusher Von Miller. Mack has had four sacks over just the past two games.
This Sunday when the 5-7 Raiders travel to Denver to take on the 10-2 Broncos, Mack figures to be on the field, putting the heat on Broncos passer Brock Osweiler, even though Mack had to sit out one day of practice this week because of a banged-up knee.
“Oh, yeah,” Mack told the media. “I feel good, really good (about playing).”
Mack is tied for fifth in the NFL in sacks this season. Only J.J. Watt (13.5), Ezekiel Ansah (12.5), Chandler Jones (10.5) and Carlos Dunlap (9.5) have more.
The Raiders go into Sunday’s game against the Broncos still with an outside shot at getting into the playoffs. They’d likely need to go 4-0 down the stretch to do it, which would include a win against division-leading Denver. To get that win, the Raiders defense would need to stop a balanced Broncos attack that ranks 17th in the NFL in rushing and 18th in passing. A big game from Mack could be a key for the Raiders.
Defensive tackle Dan Williams certainly believes Mack is capable, from what he’s seen this season.
“Each week he’s been getting better,” Williams said recently. “He’s one of those young guys who still hasn’t tapped all the talent he has. I’m definitely glad that he’s doing a lot more than he’s already done. He’s definitely a great player. I’m just glad he keeps showing it.”
