Final Word: Raiders Execute Flawless Offensive Gameplan
Week 1 Recap – Stud and Dude of the Game
The Oakland Raiders started the season with a very impressive 26-16 win in Tennessee Sunday afternoon. The Titans entered the game with hefty expectations for the season and were favored by three against Oakland. The game marked the debut for Bay Area native Marshawn Lynch. Not to mention, Derek Carr’s return from his horrible injury week 16 against the Colts in 2016. Let’s look at the Raiders best and worst performers of the game against the Titans.
STUD(s): Jared Cook and Marshawn Lynch
Many players stood out for the Raiders Sunday, but Cook and Lynch excelled in their debuts against Tennessee. Cook often received harsh criticism for his lack of ability to step up when needed. However, the former Green Bay Packer made a strong impression on his new team. Cook caught five passes for 56 yards and several key first down conversions early in the ball game. Standing 6’5″, Cook will provide Carr a big target across the middle and a constant mismatch for opposing defensive coordinators throughout the season.
Lynch (first game action in 18 months) came out and set the tone early, but also ended the game with authority for the Raiders. The bruiser constantly broke the tackle of the first defender, none more apparent than when he bulldozed Jurrell Casey in the fourth quarter. Having Lynch in lineup gives the Raiders offense an edge and the ability to do so many things on that side of the ball. Even though he only gained 76 yards on 18 carries, each yard punished the defense.
DUDE: Early third down defense
Overall, the Raiders played well in all three phases of the game. The offense did not turn the ball over, the defense dug deep in the second half for some key stops and the kicking game made clutch kicks throughout the game. So, I had to dig deep on this one. Amari Cooper could not contain the drops. Bruce Irvin had two rough penalties on back to back plays, but those can be corrected. He allowed frustration to build. The issue that could linger throughout the season is the third down defense, especially early in the game.
Tennessee ended the game 7 for 14 on third down, but started five for seven. The Titans scored their only touchdown on their first possession with three key third down conversions. Once the Raiders play against the top tier offenses, giving those teams extra opportunities to score will hurt them. But, overall, the defense started the season strong and held their own against Mariota and company
