Oakland Raiders’ Passing Game Looks Promising

Sep 8, 2013; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Oakland Raiders running back Darren McFadden (20) catches a pass that was initially ruled a touchdown but call was reversed by instant replay in a game against the Indianapolis Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium. Indianapolis defeats Oakland 21-17. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports

Ultimate Weapon

Reece doesn’t have the opposing defenses fastest linebacker on him because Darren McFadden does and that’s another match-up nightmare. If you’re not a corner on the opposing defense, it is highly unlikely that you will be able to cover McFadden. He has receiver hands, runs good routes and has elite receiver speed to go with his 6’2″ height that makes him a good down-field target.

Being a running back, he’s going to see more screens and check-down routes out of the backfield to use his ability to run after the catch. But like Reece, I would like to see the Raiders use him down the field a little more to take advantage of his blazing speed. Olson did attempt it a few times last year and the quarterback should check into it almost every time the defense is in man coverage.

Using McFadden down the field with a linebacker covering him is like stealing candy from a baby. Overall for the passing game, he sets it up with his running ability, can take a screen or check-down to the house and get deep on a linebacker. This makes McFadden an ultimate weapon but of course, the young man just has to stay healthy.

Speaking of his health, I’m going to go out on a limb as thin as a toothpick and say he going to stay healthy in 2014.