Carr Injured: Broncos Top Raiders, 16-10
Yesterday, the Raiders, still reeling from the 27-10 debacle in Washington, faced a stout Broncos defense. Unfortunately, a furious Raiders charge fell short as Denver topped Oakland, 16-10. The loss drops the Raiders to 2-2 on the season. If you followed social media during the game, you would have thought the Raiders lost 45-0 and remain winless. With that said, this game featured positives and negatives.
Positive: Believe it or not, Derek Carr’s back health falls into the plus category. After taking a knee to the kidney, the Raiders’ quarterback gingerly walked to the sidelines after. Under those circumstances, RaiderNation held its collective breath in anticipation of results. Head Coach Jack Del Rio announced that Carr suffered from back spasms. Considering the alternative, spasms fall into the “Best Case Scenario” According to reports; Carr should not miss significant time.
Negative: Entering the season, many maintained that right tackle would remain a source of constant stress. The Denver pass right feasted on Marshall Newhouse frequently Sunday’s performance proves that if Oakland possess a weakness, the right tackle spot is a major one. Offensive line coach Mike Tice will have to work miracles to solidify it now.
Positive: Before suffering his injury, Carr found Johnny Holton on 64-yard touchdown pass. For Holton, this play could mean future looks. Granted, he’s not leaping up the depth chart. However, five solid receivers will give any defensive coordinator fits.
Negative: Once again, the Raiders failed to cover an anonymous tight end that beats them for a long score. This time, Broncos’ tight end Jeff Derby, snared a one-hander en route for a 22-yard touchdown. Entering the game, derby did not have a touchdown. Of course, the Raiders’ inability to stay with a tight end would hurt.
Positive: Shockingly, Ken Norton’s defense performed well. While C.J. Anderson nearly topped 100 yards (20 carries, 95 yards), Trevor Siemian did not enjoy a huge afternoon. The pass rush harassed him all game. Khalil Mack finished with two sacks, Irvin and Edwards each tallied one. As a result, the secondary played better. Usually, people line up to berate or mentally fire Norton. Yet, after this one, he deserves credit.
In reality, if Jared Cook catches that accurate E.J. Manuel throw, this game could look very different in the standings. Be that as it may, the Oakland defense and the special teams kept the team in this game. At 2-2 and a winnable game at home versus Baltimore, the Raiders can rebound quickly.
