Match-up 101: Determining the Raiders and Jets Winner
By Jordan Trask
September 10, 2012; Oakland, CA, USA; San Diego Chargers tight end Antonio Gates (85) is tackled by Oakland Raiders defensive back Ron Bartell (21) and strong safety Tyvon Branch (33) during the first half at O.co Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports
A few weeks ago, I highlighted an Oakland player that is key to the success of the Raiders 2014 defensive season. Designating Tyvon Branch as Oakland’s safety valve isn’t about being obvious or cliche. Tyvon Branch needs to be a force on the Raiders defense in general. Exuberating confidence is imperative, but illustrating dominance is essential. Branch has the ability to reappear with force this year, and the Raiders are counting on him to do so.
Branch’s matchup against the Jet’s offense needs to be competent against the run and the pass. The Raiders and Jets are both teams that covet the ability to run the football and for the first time in a while, the Jets have a legitimate burner at tailback. Although no one knows what to expect from Chris Johnson, The Only Nation knows the history of the Raiders defense when facing an explosive runner as of late. (Ie: Reggie Bush, Jamal Charles) The Raider’s ability to contain the Jet’s running game lies in Branch’s ability to read and attack the run. Even though Oakland has possessed a solid run defense, they need to limit big plays that change the game’s momentum and inevitably the final score.
“It’ll be great for him
[Tyvon Branch]
, coming off the injury. You know he’s hungry, because when you miss time from this game, you get a chance to reflect on a lot of things. Having him back and having him be hungry.. is going to be great for our defense.”
-Charles Woodson
The 2nd aspect of Branch’s game that will be depicted in week 1, is his ability to cover the tight end. Jace Amaro is expected to play a big role in New York’s passing attack and it will be up to Branch to ensure this plane doesn’t leave the runway.
Since the Raiders faced New England in 2012, Tyvon has shown superior ability to remove the opposition’s tight end from their offensive equation. Early in his career, he benefitted from being forced to deal with Antonio Gates twice a year. Although his stature doesn’t compare to today’s NFL tight end, his physicality, speed, and determination has overshadowed the disadvantage. Branch didn’t play in the Raiders and Jets game last year and looks to make his presence felt. Oakland will be counting on Branch to properly welcome the Jet’s pass-catching rookie to the NFL on Sunday.