3 wildly bold Commanders predictions for Week 3 showdown against the Raiders

After being humbled by the Green Bay Packers in front of a primetime audience, the Washington Commanders are looking for a positive response in Week 3 against the Las Vegas Raiders. Head coach Dan Quinn has some problems to solve, but he remains confident this squad has what it takes to meet bigger expectations throughout the campaign.

The Commanders have had a mini-bye week to rest and refocus. Several injury problems at the same time aren't ideal, but it's something everyone has to deal with at some stage. It's just another bump in the road — one the Raiders will be looking to exploit in no uncertain terms.

Nobody could accuse the Commanders of lacking resolve last season. They fought their way up from also-rans to contenders and had a lot of fun doing it. It's all doom and gloom right now, but their fans will be driving them on to what will hopefully be a morale-boosting success at Northwest Stadium.

Before then, here are three wildly bold Commanders' predictions for Week 3.

Wildly bold Commanders predictions for Week 3 showdown against the Raiders

Jacory Croskey-Merritt rushes for 150+ yards

With Austin Ekeler out for the season with a torn Achilles tendon, the Commanders are moving forward with seventh-round rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt as their starting running back. It's a lot to ask, but the player looks more than ready for the moment.

Croskey-Merritt won't do it alone. The Commanders have Jeremy McNichols and Chris Rodriguez Jr. to help if the first-year pro cannot meet expectations. However, the hype and Week 1 performance indicate he could thrive with extra responsibilities on his shoulders.

If Jayden Daniels isn't risked, Croskey-Merritt has a bigger burden to carry. Don't be surprised if he draws national attention to a completely different level.

Terry McLaurin gains 100+ receiving yards, one TD

It's taking Terry McLaurin some time to get going this season, which isn't surprising when one considers he missed the entire summer preparation period during a long contract standoff with the franchise.

McLaurin needs to step up. It's been almost a month since his contract situation was resolved, and he's got two regular-season games under his belt. This bears more significance if Daniels can't go, so the second-team All-Pro needs to provide Marcus Mariota with a secure safety blanket to smooth his transition into the starting lineup.

The Raiders' secondary isn't exactly loaded with talent. A big afternoon awaits McLaurin if he starts well.

Commanders defense secures three turnovers

Geno Smith is a solid quarterback. But as Las Vegas' loss to the Los Angeles Chargers on Monday Night Football proved, he's also prone to errors if enough pressure is applied.

Whether the Commanders can do that is debatable. Their pass-rush has flashed brief moments of promise, but nothing more this season. They will also be without the services of veteran defensive end Deatrich Wise Jr., who is out for the season with a torn quad.

It won't be easy, but Smith is always good at presenting some turnover opportunities. If the Commanders can take advantage of them, it will spearhead them to success.