1st-year offensive coordinator Todd Downing recently discussed his weapons, new and old.
Todd Downing who’ll be leading the Oakland Raiders’ Derek Carr-led offense for the first time discussed his weapons today.
In an article published by Raiders.com, written by Kyle Martin, Downing talked about the many options the team will have at its disposal this upcoming season. From Amari Cooper to the newly arrived Marshawn Lynch.
“It’s awesome. I wouldn’t say that because of him we’re changing anything. It’s just nice to have another piece added to the puzzle. We really like the young backs that we have, and we feel like Marshawn added to that group is really going to solidify our running back situation and give us a chance to put our best foot forward in the run game and in protection in passing.”
-Downing on what Lynch brings to the team
While all of Raider Nation is ecstatic to have Lynch come home to Oakland it’s clear Downing sees him as a contributor, not the centerpiece. Considering he hasn’t played in a year and is on the other side of 30 this isn’t surprising but that’s exactly what makes Lynch’s addition that more terrifying for opposing defenses; what if has plenty left in the tank?
“We have a great group of veterans and some really hard-working young guys.”
-Downing on the team’s overall nucleus
Reggie McKenzie has done a phenomenal job assembling this offense through free agency and the draft in the last three seasons, so luckily for Downing for he’ll be inheriting one of the most balanced units in the league.
Every position on the team has the perfect “veteran-youngster combination”, from Amari Cooper and Michael Crabtree on the edges to Lynch and Elijah Hood in the backfield. It’ll be interesting to see how Downing uses this dynamic to his advantage this coming season that’s for sure.
“I’ll tell you the best thing about Derek, and I mean this sincerely, is that he wants to be great. He understands that to be great, it’s always a learning process.
-Downing on quarterback Derek Carr
One of the things observers are anxious to see is how the relationship between Downing and Carr will translate onto the field; more importantly if it’ll translate into wins.
Coming back from his injury surrounded by a plethora of talent, one can only imagine what Carr’s abilities with Downing’s playcalling will mean for a team that’s expected to be in the mix for a Super Bowl appearance.
Listen to RaiderRamble.com as our very own Micah shared words with Raiders’ rookie Elijah Hood: