Site: FedEx Field, Landover, Md.
Kickoff: Sunday, 5:30 p.m.
TV: NBC, Al Michaels, Cris Collinsworth, Michele Tafoya (sideline)
Three keys
1. No Carr trouble: Quarterback Derek Carr is humming, with the quickest release in the NFL (1.9 seconds), a 75 percent completion percentage and complete control of what might be the NFL’s best and most diverse offense. Carr wasn’t sacked against the Jets after taking two on consecutive plays in the opener and hasn’t come close to an interception. To get where Carr wants to go, you come up big on a national stage. As he goes, so go the Raiders.
2. Getting after Cousins: Washington quarterback Kirk Cousins was one of the NFL’s most prolific passers a year ago with nearly 5,000 yards. The passing attack has started slowly this season in part because Pierre Garcon and DeSean Jackson parted in free agency, but Cousins is dangerous when allowed to stand on his spot and deliver on time. That means Khalil Mack and Co. — he’s gotten help from Mario Edwards Jr. and last week from safety Karl Joseph — need to apply pressure.
3. Controlling the monster: In Washington’s case, that means the three-headed monster of running backs Chris Thompson, Rob Kelley and rookie Samaje Perine. All three have contributed so far and coach Jay Gruden would love to control the ball with the run as much as possible to keep Carr and Co. off the field. Washington has a formidable offensive line, too, with former Raiders coach Bill Callahan leading a unit that includes left tackle Trent Williams and guard Brandon Scherff.
