The Las Vegas Raiders visit the Los Angeles Rams on "Thursday Night Football" to kick off the NFL Week 14 schedule. While the Rams are out of contention, the Raiders could be firmly in the playoff race with a victory in L.A.

Following a 2-7 start, the Raiders have moved up to 10th in the AFC standings with a three-game winning streak. Las Vegas should be able to defeat a reeling Rams team that last won a game in Week 6 and will be without almost all of its superstar players.

Matthew Stafford and Cooper Kupp are likely out for the year with injuries. Aaron Donald didn't play in Week 13 and could miss his second straight game just four days later.

It's unknown if John Wolford, Bryce Perkins or newly acquired Baker Mayfield will start at quarterback for the Rams. No matter who is under center for Los Angeles, the Raiders will have a significant advantage at the most important position.

Derek Carr has posted a passer rating north of 99.0 in four of the last five games. The Raiders quarterback has been aided by Davante Adams and Josh Jacobs, who have been two of the league's most productive playmakers.

Adams has more than 125 receiving yards in four of the last five games and ranks fourth among all players with 1,176 yards. Josh Jacobs' 1,303 rushing yards lead the league. Jacobs is averaging 204.3 scrimmage yards per game during the Raiders' winning streak.

Las Vegas has a real chance to extend its winning streak well beyond three games. The Raiders are favored by close to a touchdown in Los Angeles. In Week 15, Las Vegas hosts the New England Patriots, which are a game ahead of the Raiders in the playoff race. Las Vegas has another very winnable matchup in Week 16 when it visits the Pittsburgh Steelers.

The Rams could put up a fight Thursday night. Los Angeles nearly upset the Seattle Seahawks in Week 13.

But the Raiders should come away with a victory and increase their chances of getting back to the postseason.

Prediction: Raiders over Rams, 24-20

NFL: Arizona Cardinals at Las Vegas Raiders
Reuters