Khalil Mack
In the same way that Von Miller is the most important player on the Denver Broncos defense, so is Oakland Raiders outside linebacker Khalil Mack. In fact, the two are essentially mirror images of each other.
Both players are extremely quick, athletic pass rushers, who are almost equally as dominant against the run. According to Pro Football Focus’ grading system, Miller is the most effective edge rusher in the NFL, while Mack is the most effective run defender of the edge; both players are ranked fourth in the opposing category.
And like Von helped transform the Broncos’ defense into one of the best unit’s in the NFL over the last five years, Khalil is doing the same, as the Raiders defense has made significant jumps in each of his first two seasons.
Mack is the type of talent that you can build your defense around for a decade to come. Just look at how he dominates the Kansas City Chiefs’ offensive line on these two plays last week.
https://twitter.com/blackhanside/status/674396227736240132
https://twitter.com/BHugh_215/status/673622312776695808
And then he puts his athleticism on full display with this sack.
https://twitter.com/TheFakeAlbert/status/672235217046884356
Between these three guys, the Oakland Raiders will no longer be a just a crack in the sidewalk that the Broncos have to step over on route to the playoffs; they’re going to become a real roadblock, both this weekend and in the coming years.
Before long, it’ll become fun to hate the Raiders again.
