Though the AFC West is crowded, the Las Vegas Raiders aim to compete for a playoff spot this season. 

Yet, in the latest Doug Kyed's Mailbag on Pro Football Focus, he doubles down on the prediction of an average season from the Raiders.

With teams like the Los Angeles Chargers and Kansas City Chiefs, many analysts don't see room for the Raiders atop the AFC West. In Kyed's mailbag answer, he assumes the same.

Here is what he had to say:

"The Denver Broncos, Kansas City Chiefs and Los Angeles Chargers have an over/under of 10.5 wins in 2022. The Las Vegas Raiders are slightly behind at 8.5 wins. I think that’s pretty fair. The Raiders have a really talented roster, so it’s entirely possible that they could finish above any of those teams, but just comparing them to the Chiefs, who I believe took a step back this season, Kansas City has the advantage at quarterback, tight end, offensive line, defensive interior, linebacker and safety, while the Raiders have the advantage at running back, wide receiver, edge and cornerback."

Though the reasoning makes sense, what is often omitted is the reality of hot streaks and injuries.

In football, it's often the team that stays healthy all season that is competitive late.

And with a team eager to prove itself, the Raiders may be the team to surprise people.

Skip Bayless did pick the Raiders to win the AFC West. He may not always be right, but he could be on to something.

8.5 wins is simply too low for a team with as much talent as the Raiders possess.

Related Las Vegas Raiders reading

"Raiders dealing with an injury to a key player." 

"Raiders veteran safety does exactly what Josh McDaniels needs." 

"Las Vegas Raiders are doing something to make sure the Super Bowl window stays open." 

Feature image via  Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports.