Raiders Opinion: Time For An Offensive Outburst

The Las Vegas Raiders’ entire season comes down to the game versus the Colts. In a season of drama and uncertainty, this team still needs to finish the Colts. While Gus Bradley and the defense played rather stingily over the last two games, the offense remains a mess. Yet, people want to discuss comeback wins. If the defense doesn’t make key stops, the season would have ended in Cleveland. It’s time for the offense and their most ardent supporters to face facts and look at the truth.

Ball Security

Now, this applies to both ballcarriers and Derek Carr. First, Josh Jacobs must carry the ball tighter and with a bit more urgency. Every carry counts. The Colts will attempt to stand up and punch the ball free. Denver provided the film for it on Sunday. In this game, discretion serves as the better part of valor. Trying to grind out those extra yards while enveloped by tacklers may not end especially well. Instead, take what you can, intelligently. Meanwhile, Derek Carr and his twelve fumbles will make him a target for dislodging. Teams know, after eight seasons, that if you get anywhere near Carr, you can jar the ball free. Behind an average-at-best offensive line, Carr needs to feel the rush better and quicker.

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Hunter Help

Can any other wide receiver on the Raiders step up? Granted, Hunter Renfrow runs crisp routes, displays consistent hands, giving Carr a valuable target. However, where is the other receiving help? Zay Jones averages less than twelve yards per reception. Winning with speed and quickness will never be his game. DeSean Jackson, in year fourteen, needs to see an increase in targets. With all of the blathering about the Raiders and the vertical passing game, where are the passes? The Colts will not blitz Carr. In Jackson, they do have a player to test them vertically. Additionally, Foster Moreau will challenge a depleted defense down the seam.

Bottom Line

The line of fans and media to defend Carr feels miles long. They brag about comeback victories. If he played better for the first three quarters, the comeback would not become necessary. If Derek Carr leads the Raiders into the playoffs, based on the fact of the team winning out, he will earn credit. Yet, if he does not and the team continues to struggle offensively, the blame falls on him. The defense did their part to keep the Raiders afloat. Now, the offense must follow suit.