Date: Saturday, August 16, 2025
Time: 4:00 PM ET
Location: Allegiant Stadium, Las Vegas, NV
TV: NFL Network
The San Francisco 49ers head to the desert to take on the Las Vegas Raiders in a Week 2 preseason matchup where both sides will be testing depth and looking for sharper execution. San Francisco’s defense dominated their opener, while Las Vegas is eager to bounce back after an inconsistent offensive showing.
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Matchup Overview
Las Vegas enters as a 4.5-point home favorite with the total set at 40.5. The 49ers are expected to split snaps between Sam Darnold and rookie QB Jordan Travis, while the Raiders should feature Gardner Minshew and rookie Aidan O’Connell for extended reps.
San Francisco 49ers
On offense, San Francisco leaned on the run game in their opener, with Tyrion Davis-Price and Jordan Mason combining for over 100 yards. Darnold looked comfortable in limited action, moving the ball efficiently on short throws. Defensively, the 49ers were relentless, creating constant backfield pressure and forcing two turnovers. Special teams coverage was sharp, with a long kickoff return setting up a quick score. San Francisco has hit the Under in five of their last seven preseason contests.
Las Vegas Raiders
Las Vegas struggled to find consistency on offense in Week 1, alternating between sharp passing drives and stalled possessions. Minshew’s accuracy was solid, but protection breakdowns hurt momentum. Rookie RB Dylan Laube added spark with his quickness in space. On defense, the Raiders showed good penetration on early downs but were vulnerable to quick passing concepts. Special teams were reliable, highlighted by a 52-yard field goal. Las Vegas is 6-2 ATS in their last eight preseason games.
Key Matchups to Watch
- 49ers Pass Rush vs. Raiders O-Line Depth – San Francisco’s defensive front could disrupt both Minshew and O’Connell.
- Rookie Running Backs – Dylan Laube (LV) and Jordan Mason (SF) both have big-play potential.
- Special Teams Edge – Field position could be critical in a tight preseason contest.
Betting Odds
- Spread: Raiders -4.5 / 49ers +4.5
- Total (O/U): 40.5
- Moneyline: Raiders -200 / 49ers +165
(Odds via ESPN BET at time of writing — subject to change)
Prediction
San Francisco’s defense has the tools to frustrate Las Vegas, but the Raiders’ home-field edge and steadier QB rotation could make the difference late. Expect a competitive game early, with the Raiders capitalizing on second-half drives to pull away.
Projected Final Score:
Raiders 23 – 49ers 17
- Total Points: 40 → ✅ Under 40.5
- Margin: 6 points → ✅ Raiders cover -4.5
Best Bets
- Raiders -4.5 (-110) – Home field and QB depth lean in Vegas’ favor.
- Under 40.5 (-110) – Defenses should control much of the game.
- First Half Under 20 (-110) – Expect a slow start as both teams rotate early.
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