The Difference: How Raiders QB Carr Separates Himself from Other QB’s
Beyond any single player, the quarterback remains the most vital position on the field. Immediately, a good one transforms an average team. In addition, a potential great one can lead a dynasty. For the Oakland Raiders, Derek Carr embodies what the modern quarterback should be. Yet, there are some like the MMQB’s Andy Benoit, who remain strong in their belief that Carr isn’t as good as advertised. Since we’re at this point, let’s analyze what Carr won’t do.
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Sad Super Bowl Ads
If the Raiders play in a Super Bowl and lose, that feeling crushes the players, coaches and RaiderNation. As a result, don’t expect to see Carr emulate Matt Ryan. In February, the Falcons orchestrated the single greatest collapse in Super Bowl history, squandering a 25 point lead. Granted, the Raiders would run the ball, instead of ridiculous pass plays in the red zone. However, if Oakland lost, Carr would not partake in this festival of sadness commercial. On the surface, Carr competes and would take a Super Bowl loss hard. On the other hand, his appearance feels weird.
Give Up:
Now, Derek Carr displayed reckless behavior running on the sidelines during games. Under those circumstances, his competitive fire burned too bright. Sooner or later, we all have to make the decision to fully commit to a moment. For Cam Newton, Super Bowl 50, one moment could define him. With the game hanging in the balance, Von Miller stripped Newton. As the ball lay on the ground, Newton gingerly approached the fumble. Suddenly, he hesitated, preferring to not dive into the pile. Down six points, that recovery extends the Panthers drive. At worst, Carolina punts. Instead, the Broncos recover. Without delay, Carr jumps in that pile and fights for the ball. He plays the game like a linebacker.
Lengthy Contract Squabbles
While the Raiders inked Carr to a healthy contract, other signal callers choose to make the process longer than it should be. For instance, Washington quarterback Kirk Cousins lives by the franchise tag. Therefore, little stability exists for that team beyond this season. Building a franchise looks extremely difficult, quarterback insecurity does not help. At the same time, Carr will arrive at camp with only one thing in mind: winning the Super Bowl. Furthermore, I wonder if Cousins has a message for his fans looking for stability.
Thankfully Normal
While life stays unpredictable, certain guarantees exist. Instead of having police at his home or arresting him at a strip club, Carr hangs with the family. Consequently, his boring lifestyle helps the Raiders. Granted, boring could be considering an insult. In this case, the term compliments Carr for leading a regular life, free of distractions. When other players run the streets at all hours, the Raiders quarterback is probably at home.
In the long run, Derek Carr could retire as the greatest quarterback in Raiders history. If he fulfills his promise and potential, this teams looks to contend for the next decade or so.
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