Las Vegas Raiders Rivalries: Decades of Grit, Grudge, and Glory
Few NFL teams boast a history as fierce and dramatic as the Las Vegas Raiders — and their rivalries are a massive part of that legacy. From blood-boiling division battles to playoff heartbreaks and personal vendettas, the Raiders have been at the center of some of the league’s most iconic matchups.
Whether it’s the battle for AFC West dominance or a clash of football philosophies, the Raiders’ rivalries are deeply rooted in tradition, controversy, and unforgettable moments.
1. Raiders vs. Kansas City Chiefs: The Ultimate AFC West Showdown
The Raiders vs. Chiefs rivalry is arguably the most intense and enduring feud in the AFC West. Dating back to the AFL days in the 1960s, this rivalry has been fueled by mutual disdain and decades of high-stakes clashes.
Why It’s Heated:
- Division Rivals: These teams meet twice a year, often with playoff implications on the line.
- Historic Moments: From bench-clearing brawls to last-second touchdowns, the games rarely disappoint.
- Fan Tensions: Raider Nation and Chiefs Kingdom do not get along — online or in the stands.
Recent Years: The Chiefs have dominated in the Patrick Mahomes era, but the Raiders have pulled off major upsets, keeping the rivalry alive.
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2. Raiders vs. Denver Broncos: Battle for the West
The Raiders-Broncos rivalry is a classic AFC West battle filled with physical play, trash talk, and decades of disdain. Though the rivalry has seen swings in dominance, the hatred remains mutual.
Key Highlights:
- 1970s–80s: The rivalry was at its peak during the Raiders’ Super Bowl years.
- Mile High Tensions: Whether in Oakland or Denver, the games have always been emotional.
- Quarterback Clashes: From John Elway to Derek Carr, iconic QBs have faced off in this rivalry.
Fun Fact: The Raiders lead the all-time series as of the 2024 season.
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3. Raiders vs. Los Angeles Chargers: Sibling Rivalry Turned Bitter
The Raiders and Chargers have had a turbulent relationship that feels like a sibling rivalry — especially since both teams have called Los Angeles and shared fan bases.
Why It’s Unique:
- Shared History: Both were original AFL teams and former LA franchises.
- Wild Finishes: Their matchups often feature wild comebacks, overtime finishes, and playoff implications.
- Controversial Games: Remember the 2021 Week 18 game that nearly ended in a tie to send both teams to the playoffs? Iconic.
Recent Vibes: With both teams trying to climb back into postseason contention, every game is critical.
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4. Raiders vs. New England Patriots: Bad Blood Since the Tuck Rule
While not a division rivalry, the Raiders-Patriots feud is infamous — mostly due to one game: the Tuck Rule Game in the 2001 AFC Divisional Round.
Why It’s Personal:
- Tuck Rule Controversy: Tom Brady’s “incomplete pass” in snowy Foxborough still haunts Raiders fans.
- Bill Belichick Era: The Patriots’ dynasty began with that game — at the Raiders’ expense.
- Player Movement: Former Raiders like Randy Moss and Chandler Jones made major impacts in New England.
While less frequent than AFC West matchups, this rivalry remains a sore spot for Raider Nation.
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5. Honorable Mentions: Emerging and Forgotten Feuds
Raiders vs. Steelers:
The Steelers-Raiders rivalry in the 1970s was legendary, featuring playoff clashes, hard hits, and the Immaculate Reception — another controversial call still debated today.
Raiders vs. 49ers (Battle of the Bay):
Though the Raiders have moved to Vegas, the Raiders-49ers rivalry remains a cultural grudge match for fans from Northern California.
Why Raiders Rivalries Matter
For the Las Vegas Raiders, rivalries are more than just games — they’re battles for pride, identity, and legacy. These matchups define seasons, shape careers, and fuel the passion of Raider Nation year after year.
Whether it’s the long-standing animosity with the Chiefs or the still-fresh wounds from the Patriots, every rivalry game carries extra weight — and that’s what makes being a Raiders fan so thrilling.
Final Thoughts: Circle These Games on the 2025 Raiders Schedule
If you’re planning to watch the Raiders in 2025, don’t miss these rivalry games. They’re not just contests — they’re chapters in one of the NFL’s most dramatic stories.
