After a disappointing start to this season, the Oakland Raiders have breathed new life and now could be on the verge of a turnaround.
In one of the most dramatic and heart-stopping finishes in years, the Raiders were able to salvage their season, and against the Kansas City Chiefs no less. This game was filled with performances which redeemed some embattled Raiders such as Amari Cooper and offensive coordinator Todd Downing. When it was all said and done in Oakland, quarterback Derek Carr was “back” as he delivered with literally no time left on the clock.
Even as early in the game when Cooper scored on the flea-flicker you got a sense this was going to be special. And special it was, Cooper gaining over 200 years receiving and yes, Michael Crabtree once again putting his clutch powers on display.
In the end, offensively speaking, the Raiders offense finally emerged from its slumber that it had found itself since literally getting knocked out by the Washington Redskins on Sunday Night Football. Only player absent was, of course, Marshawn Lynch. Call it what you want, a knucklehead move or defending his teammate, this season isn’t going well for ” Beast Mode” at all with the ejection only making matters worse.
On defense, the broken record continues. Defensive coordinator Ken Norton Jr. is doing his best to put players in position but it’s just not happening. Two factors; one is lack of talent and age. Dexter McDonald and David Amerson couldn’t cover anything and Reggie Nelson’s age is on full display. Can Gareon Conley and Obi Melifonwu help in time?
The upcoming rest days will be crucial and Raider Nation must now wait and see if this game can truly signal the beginning of something special.