FPC Raiders Forum: Fine Tuning

Fresh off their nailbiter versus the Bengals, the Oakland Raiders still need fine tuning. Despite a 6-4 record and a things breaking right, Oakland must attend to finding a consistent second wideout. Next, the interior of the defensive line doesn’t always bring the requisite push. The Chargers and Bengals gashed the Raiders’ run defense. To delve into these issues, FPC Raiders writers Ray Aspuria and Terrance Biggs gather to discuss.

Despite the offense thriving, no true number two receiver has stepped up. What problems do you see this causing later in the season? Who needs to take that spot?

Aspuria

This will be troublesome when it comes to AFC West games round two. The Chiefs, Chargers and Broncos will have ample film on the Raiders and tendencies will be identified and counters drawn up. If you take away de facto No. 1 Darren Waller, Tyrell Williams and Hunter Renfrow, the pickings can be very slim for Derek Carr. 

Zay Jones is showing he can run routes and isn’t a drop machine, but what Gruden needs to exploit is the lack of attention Foster Moreau is getting from defenses. He’s a good route runner and has soft hands and can be a reliable seam-buster as he’s proven to be a solid red zone option. 

Biggs

Few scheme better than Andy Reid. In turn, he will ensure defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo will. The Chiefs will attempt to take away Darren Waller. Additionally, teams already know this. Derek Carr needs to find that strong second wideout. Zay Jones and Hunter Renfrow can serve as that option. However, Renfrow feels like a better slot fit. With that said, it’s up to Jones. Spending draft capital to acquire him means Jon Gruden wants to give him ample opportunity.

With the edges succeeding recently, how would you attempt to fix the interior?

Aspuria

While Jonathan Hankins is the girth run stuffer, having him in on passing downs still commands attention. If he’s in, that’s two bodies on him that should allow the other interior lineman to work 1-on-1. 

Dion Jordan played the interior rusher and registered sack in his first action as a Raider. Would like to see Clelin Ferrell get more snaps inside and the coaches could flip flop between Ferrell and Jordan inside and out. 

Biggs

Like Ray mentioned, Dion Jordan slide inside and tallied a sack. On a positive note, that give the Raiders a quasi-NASCAR defensive line. Meanwhile, teams look to feast in the run game. Honestly, if the edges play this well, spot Hankins on an early down, then turn the front four loose with Hall, Hurst and Jordan rotating two spots. Granted, you lose something versus the run, but get home against the pass.