The Las Vegas Raiders are riding high after two victories over playoff teams, and the defense is a big part of it. That is a welcome change from years past as the offense and defense were not complementing each other.
In Week 3 today, coming up against the Miami Dolphins, the defense has another chance to shine. The Dolphins are coming in with their starting quarterback out and the offensive line not performing well. These are the two players who will need to shine against the Dolphins.
Maxx Crosby, DE
Maxx Crosby has been playing well through the first two weeks of the season, but against the Dolphins offensive line, who has struggled, he can have a day. Crosby after two games, has eight total tackles, three tackles for a loss, two sacks, and ten QB hits per Pro Football Reference.
The Dolphins’ line gave up six sacks last week against the Buffalo Bills, meaning they could be vulnerable today. If Crosby wants to show how good or great he can be, this seems like the perfect setup for him to really expand his stats and possibly some highlight plays.
Solomon Thomas, DL
Solomon Thomas may be having a career resurgence. After being a first-round pick by the San Francisco 49ers and leaving this past offseason, Thomas was looking for a place to jump-start his career. He signed with the Raiders and has blossomed so far. In Week 2 against the Pittsburgh Steelers, Thomas provided a spark. Thomas accumulated two sacks, three QB hits, and a pass deflection.
If you watched the game, you saw Thomas constantly moving around the field. He was always helping in providing pressure. He can be big again due to the Dolphins’ offensive line struggling. The recipe is there for Thomas and the defense to make their mark. Let’s pay close attention to Thomas, hopefully, he’ll replicate that same effort today.
Are Raiders Heading Into A Trap In Week 3?
*Top Photo: AP Photo/John Locher