Raiders Face Tough Challenge Against Browns in Week 12 Showdown
The Las Vegas Raiders are struggling in the 2025 NFL season, ranking 30th in both yards per game at 269.0 and points at 15.5 as they approach Week 12. Their upcoming matchup against the Cleveland Browns presents a unique scenario, as both teams have shown weaknesses on offense. The Browns, standing at 31st in yards with 257.3 per game and 29th in scoring at 16.2 points per game, are also grappling with their own offensive challenges.
Despite both teams’ struggles, the Raiders’ defense may find some relief against the Browns. Cleveland has performed poorly this season, particularly with a potential change under center as rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders might make his first career start. The Browns’ offensive inconsistency has been a significant factor in their lower scoring, as they have only managed to outscore the Raiders due to a more favorable defensive performance. Currently, the Browns are second in yards allowed per game at 273.5, while the Raiders rank 17th at 326.8 yards allowed.
The impending clash has the makings of a challenging game for Las Vegas. The Browns’ defense has been strong this season, particularly their pass rush led by Myles Garrett, who is on pace to break the single-season sack record with 15 in just 10 games. This poses a considerable threat to Raiders quarterback Geno Smith, who has already struggled throughout the season.
Given this context, it is difficult to find reliable fantasy options among the Raiders’ players. While talents like Brock Bowers and Ashton Jeanty have shown potential, the matchup against the Browns’ formidable defense dampens their appeal. The Raiders’ offensive line has been a liability, and Smith’s performance has led fantasy managers to reconsider his viability as a starting option this week.
Despite the overall concerns, there is one aspect of the Raiders’ lineup that may hold value for fantasy players. According to NFL.com’s Michael Florio, the Raiders’ defense/special teams unit could be a worthwhile option this week. Florio notes, “The Browns have been a favorable matchup for fantasy defenses this season, regardless of who they’ve lined up under center. This week, Shedeur Sanders will make his first career start. Although I think Sanders has a lot of talent, he’s shown a tendency to take too many sacks – an issue that dates back to his days at Colorado.”
With the potential for turnovers and sacks, the Raiders’ defense may provide a significant upside this week.
As the Raiders prepare for this crucial matchup against the Browns on November 26, 2025, both teams are looking to establish some momentum. With the stakes high and both offenses struggling, fans can expect a tightly contested game where defensive strategies may play a pivotal role.
