After nine weeks of NFL football, it’s clear that the Las Vegas Raiders offense has been much improved in 2020. They have already scored 30 or more points four times this year, and 40 against the Kansas City Chiefs. They never scored 40 points in 2019 and only scored more than 30, twice. So let’s take a look at some of the players who are responsible for the improvements.
The Raiders got some solid performances out of their offense
1. Running back Devontae Booker
Devontae Booker has been a great backup to Josh Jacobs and really balled out against the Los Angeles Chargers. He averaged 8.5 yards per carry and finished with eight carries, 68 yards, and a touchdown. If the Raiders really want to continue making noise, they need to keep using him. Looking at how much impact he’s had in limited playing time, he’s an underrated contributor that needs more snaps.
2. Running back Josh Jacobs
The Raiders’ running game was a huge key to beating the ‘Bolts’. Booker had a good game but Josh Jacobs also did his part, milking the clock on the team’s last offensive drive. He averaged 4.6 yards per carry on 14 carries, 65 yards, and a touchdown.
3. Quarterback Derek Carr
Derek Carr has been very efficient and accurate in 2020. So far, he’s thrown 16 touchdowns and just two interceptions. Today, he didn’t throw any interceptions, but he did fumble once at the end of the second half. However, he finished the game with 165 yards and two touchdowns (both on third down) that ultimately won the game for the Raiders.
Related:Â Raiders Week 9: Defense Holds On As Chargers Fall Short
Conclusion & honorable mentions:
Honorable mentions include wide receiver Nelson Agholor, tight end Darren Waller and wide receiver Hunter Renfrow. The Clemson standout hauled in two catches for 60 yards, ‘Nelly’ caught two catches for 55 yards and one touchdown. Meanwhile, Darren Waller contributed with five catches for 22 yards and one touchdown.
The run game and ability to run the clock down ultimately won the Raiders the game. Carr ran the ball two times for 14 yards and had a critical run for a first down in which he leaped over a defender late in the third quarter. Even rookie wide receiver Henry Ruggs III ran for ten yards on one carry. Altogether, the Raiders rushed for 160 yards, but the passing attack was efficient as well.
The Raiders ended up winning 31-26 in a game that went down to the last play and moved on to two wins in a row, 5-3 on the season, 2-0 in the division, and 4-1 in games on the road. If they can keep playing like this, the Raiders could be hard to beat.
You May Also Like:Â Las Vegas Raiders: Path to the Playoffs Heading into Week 9
Top Photo: Harry How/Getty Images