Star wide receiver Davante Adams headlined the receiving game, as he topped 100 yards for the first time since Week 1. Let’s take a closer look at the Las Vegas Raiders’ pass-catchers following their much-needed against the Denver Broncos’ defense.
Davante Adams vs. Patrick Surtain II
The receiving game had a tall task at hand with the Broncos. They have great players all over their secondary, headlined by second-year standout Patrick Surtain II.
During the first drive, Adams and Co. were driving the field. The Raiders were in position to score. Quarterback Derek Carr tried to connect with Adams, but Surtain II was able to make a play and force the field goal. If Carr had thrown that ball inside, instead of to the outside, Adams’ touchdown streak would have been kept alive.
Adams also caught a clutch first down during the Raiders’ last scoring drive to keep it alive. Adams got the best of Surtain II during some reps and vice versa. Technician versus technician. In Week 11, these two will square off once more.
At the game’s conclusion, Adams had reconnected with Carr, amassing 101 yards on nine catches. His totals also included a notable 11.2 yards per reception, though as mentioned before, his touchdown streak ended. Nevertheless, he led the team in receiving, but their running game was the key to winning this game.
Rounding off the rest of the Las Vegas Raiders’ wide receivers
The Raiders’ passing attack wasn’t putting up big numbers because of the stingy Bronco defense and the emphasis the Raiders’ offense had on running the ball. After Adams, the receiving workload was distributed evenly. They had three receivers end up with 20+ yards: Darren Waller (24), Josh Jacobs (31), and Mack Hollins (33).
Carr ended the game with 188 yards on 21 completions with no touchdowns or turnovers. He managed the game and didn’t turn the ball over. Something that is crucial when your running game is working. They didn’t have many explosive plays, as the Broncos were sitting in a lot of two-high safety looks.
Also, as the Raiders were in control for most of the game, it meant that there was no need to spread and sling the rock. Taking that into consideration, that caused their passing numbers to look lower than in previous weeks.
Raiders Blog: What’s going on with Darren Waller?
Carr misplaced a few throws that could’ve padded the stats, but it is fine. They won the game, and that is all that matters when you consider the Raiders’ recent losing streak. Basically, Carr helped to stop the bleeding, but there’s still one major concern. We’re talking about the chemistry between Carr and Waller.
Simply put, Waller and Carr’s connection doesn’t look great four weeks into the season. Waller finished with 24 yards on three catches. They have to find their sweet spot sooner rather than later. The court of public opinion is already starting to turn on Waller. The star tight end got his much sought after contract this offseason, but the numbers aren’t warranting such money. Head coach Josh McDaniels entrusted Josh Jacobs with a bigger workload this week. At some point, Raider Nation clamors for Waller to be the focal point.
*Top Photo: Official Raiders YouTube Channel