Oakland Raiders vs. Chiefs Preview: Keys to the Game by Matthew Lorscheider

Before the regular season finale begins, Khalil Mack currently stands at 15 sacks on the season. One more sack and he will tie the franchise single-season record set by Derrick Burgess, set in 2005.

The main prize though, is the NFL sack title. Mack entered the final week with the lead, but J.J. Watt had a big day, registering three sacks to pass him.

So that puts Watt at 17.5 sacks. That means if Mack records three sacks, he’ll be the NFL’s sack leader.

This would be the cherry on top of what’s been a stellar sophomore season for Mack. After an outstanding rookie year in which his numbers didn’t match his on-field play, Mack has elevated his play amongst the NFL’s elite.

In a Week 14 victory on the road against the Denver Broncos, Mack tied the Raiders single-game record with five sacks. The franchise record was set by Howie Long in 1983.

Mack has also continued his dominance against the run, with only Aaron Donald and Brandon Williams being graded higher, per PFF.

Overall, PFF has Mack graded as the second best defensive player in the league, trailing only Donald. Josh Norman probably will win the Defensive Player of the Year award, but Mack certainly will be considered.

Especially if he wins the NFL sack title. Let’s see if he can get it done.