Contrary to previous years, the Silver and Black’s defense has been excelling this season. The offense, on the other hand, is struggling on nearly every level. As the Las Vegas Raiders try to halt their three-game skid, here are three offensive players to keep an eye on.
WR Bryan Edwards
Heading into the 2021 season, Edwards was being compared to some of the best wide receivers to ever play. During the season, Raider Nation has been begging to see that narrative ring true. Edwards is coming off his quietest performance this season with zero receptions. Not only did he not have any receptions, but he also had zero targets.
After the loss of Henry Ruggs III, Edwards was poised for a big season. Many Raiders fans expected Edwards to step into the WR1 position, but that has yet to happen. Edwards has proved he can make big plays in crucial situations. The Raiders’ receiver has averaged more than over 10 yards per catch in seven games this season, per Pro Football Reference.
As the Raiders head into a game that features a Defensive Player of the Year candidate in Trevon Diggs, Edwards has to step up and make plays for his team. In a short week, Derek Carr and Edwards will have to reignite their connection to give the Raiders the best chance to win on Thursday.
RB Kenyan Drake
Kenyan Drake was brought in during free agency to compliment Raiders star running back Josh Jacobs, and so far, he has done his job.
Drake has rushed for just 229 yards and two touchdowns this season, but he also has 27 receptions for 278 receiving yards and an additional touchdown. Many of Drake’s plays have come in crucial situations, including a 31-yard touchdown reception against the Broncos in Week 6.
This week, Drake has a chance to give his offense an advantage. He has an opportunity to get involved in the passing game for a team that has struggled with its wide receivers. The use of Drake as a receiver instead of a rusher could be beneficial against a top-10 rush defense.
TE Foster Moreau
The Raiders have a special duo at the tight end position. Both Darren Waller and Foster Moreau have been advantages for the Raiders this season. However, Las Vegas has struggled to use Waller to his maximum potential this season. Both coaches and players have vowed to get him more involved in the game. While this is exactly what the offense needs, it was also heard around the NFL.
As opponents begin to game plan for the increased use of Waller, that could increase Moreau’s involvement this week. Moreau caught a 19-yard touchdown pass from Carr last week that showed Raider Nation just how good he can be. We’ll see if he has that chance again in Dallas.
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*Top Photo: Matt Freed/Post-Gazette