With the Oakland Raiders facing the Dallas Cowboys in just a few hours, RaiderRamble.com takes a look at three players that are poised for a breakout game.
As the Raiders continue their march towards the season, what can we expect in tonight’s game? The fact is, it is Week 3 of the preseason and the team needs some break out performances. Here are three players that Raider Nation should keep an eye on in today’s game versus the Dallas Cowboys.
James Cowser, DE Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â
Cowser has stepped up in a big way and has already taken playing time from fellow teammate Shilique Calhoun.
At 6’3″, 245 pounds, Cowser has the size and speed that coaches covet. After amassing 43.5 sacks in college, he only had nine tackles and one sack in limited playing time in his rookie campaign.
Last week against the L.A. Rams, he looked decent with three tackles and one pass defended. Coaches have said he has flashed some skills in the first two pre-season contests. He is Khalil Mack’s primary back-up, and the Raiders’ top rated edge defender through the first two preseason games. Look for Cowser to take another step forward against the Cowboys.
Obi Melifonwu, S
Finally, Raider Nation gets to see this physical specimen on the field. At 6’4″, 224 pounds, Melifonwu imposed his will in college. While he has not played a down in the NFL, he is one of the two rookies that everyone has been dying to see.
In 2016, he was the Huskies’ top tackler with 118 tackles, 2.5 for loss and four interceptions, while breaking up three other passes. With his sharp instincts and massive body structure, he looks like a very promising pick to add to the Raiders’ defensive back field.
Hopefully, he can live up to all the hype and be everything the Raiders need in the secondary, as they need all the help they can get after getting punched in the mouth last week against the Rams. His NFL debut against the Cowboys will show what he is capable of, albeit a tiny sample.
“I thought Obi had a good week of practice and we look forward to seeing him Saturday.” – Raiders’ Head Coach Jack Del Rio via Raiders.com
Treyvon Hester, DL
At 6’2″, 300lbs, Treyvon Hester is a monster. In his first NFL action against the Arizona Cardinals, he earned Bridgestone Performance Moment of the Week honors. In 33 snaps, Hester produced four tackles, two sacks for loss, and one QB hit. Against the Rams last week, he did not do so well, with only one tackle. I am looking forward to seeing him bounce back and make the necessary adjustments and have a significant impact in his third preseason game against the Cowboys.
“I was just ready,” said Hester post game. “Ready to go, just ready to go out there and showcase my talents as best as possible.” – Treyvon Hester via Raiders.com