Do Not Worry About the Oakland Raiders Defense

Aug 8, 2014; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings quarterback Matt Cassel (16) avoids Oakland Raiders linebacker Khalil Mack (52) who is blocked by tight end Kyle Rudolph (82) but eventually gets sacked in the first quarter at TCF Bank Stadium. Vikings win 10-6. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-USA TODAY Sports

Mack Has Been Playing Well

Many have been disappointed in Khalil Mack after many deemed him as the 2014 draft’s best football player. The reason why is because they’re watching the stat sheet instead of watching the young man play. When he’s had a chance to rush the passer, he had some pressures that led to throw aways and sacks for his teammates too.

The problem is they see Jadeveon Clowney get a sack with no one even trying to block him and he’s the man for that. But those same people that are disappointed in Mack have to realize that they said “best football player,” not best pass rusher in the draft. Mack has been splendid in coverage while Clowney has been beat for a touchdown and it was no match.

Mack has also set his edge well—turning the play back inside for middle linebacker Nick Roach when opposing teams run his way. Then he gets two tackles for a loss and and interception last Friday and they say, “Hey, Khalil Mack is finally playing well!” No, Mack has been playing well since he first put on the Silver and Black—it’s just finally showing up on the stat sheet for him.