The preseason is coming to a close for the Las Vegas Raiders as they prepare to face the Dallas Cowboys in their final exhibition game. It has been an eventful preseason for the Raiders, to say the least.
They’ve remained undefeated despite facing tough competition, though the box scores would suggest otherwise. Let’s face it, it’s preseason—the Raiders have mostly faced second- and third-stringers. Still, as we eagerly await the regular season, let’s look at some bold predictions for Week 3 of the preseason.
Raiders TE Michael Mayer will score a touchdown vs. the Cowboys
Rookie tight end Michael Mayer has had an eventful offseason, marked by a memorable encounter with Raiders pass-rush specialist Maxx Crosby during his first day in pads. He got rocked, and he didn’t even see it coming.
Mayer admitted feeling embarrassed but quickly rebounded from the experience, demonstrating his mental toughness and determination to succeed in the NFL. The Raiders targeted Mayer as a high priority during the draft given the glaring hole left by Darren Waller. Up to this point, you could argue that he has displayed his impressive pass-catching skills that made him a big star at Notre Dame.
While No. 87 excels in the receiving game, questions remain about his blocking abilities. The “moment” with Crosby served as a wake-up call for Mayer, who has since focused on improving his blocking technique. Raiders head coach Josh McDaniels has been impressed with Mayer’s growth in this area and his overall development as a tight end.
So, bold prediction No. 1 for preseason Week 3 against the Cowboys? It’s Michael Mayer’s breakout performance. Jimmy Garoppolo will struggle early in the game to target Mayer as an out. Mayer will respond and serve “Jimmy G” well throughout the first half. He will have six catches and a touchdown while his fantasy stock presumably rises.
Amik Robertson’s fight for a roster spot
Amik Robertson is in tight competition for a roster spot among the Raiders’ cornerbacks. Some would make the case that Robertson has not performed poorly in the preseason. Conversely, he has not done enough to surpass players like David Long Jr. and Duke Shelley on the depth chart.
As a fourth-year pro entering a contract year, Robertson’s future with the Raiders may be uncertain if he fails to make a clear impact during the regular season. The game against the Cowboys presents a crucial opportunity for Robertson to prove himself and potentially catch the attention of other teams if he does not make the Raiders’ roster.
Here we go, my bold prediction No. 2 for preseason Week 3 versus the Cowboys: Robertson is exposed early in the game. The Cowboys’ quarterbacks will pick on him relentlessly while he’s on the field. A frustrated Robertson will make several penalties while giving up many catches, resulting in him not making the 53-man roster.
*Top Photo: Getty Images