How Latavius Murray Changes Everything for the Oakland Raiders
By Vic Lopez
Aug 8, 2014; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Oakland Raiders offensive coordinator Greg Olson against the Minnesota Vikings at TCF Bank Stadium. The Vikings defeated the Raiders 10-6. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports
Impact on Offense
The most hated man in Oakland may have a few more supporters after the Raiders win on Thursday.
No Greg Olson is not Bill Walsh, hell he is not even Hue Jackson. But maybe, just maybe the putrid offense seen in Oakland this season, may not be completely his fault.
It is funny how one player, Latavius Murray, all of sudden made the Raiders offense actually look downright scary. A game where the Chiefs defense must have been licking their chops, suddenly became an “Oh, F%#@” moment when Murray touched the ball.
But back to Olson, who despite harsh criticism, multiple qb changes, and a poor running game kept fighting the good fight.
It is understandable to say the least, that playcalling is only half of the problem in Oakland. Latavius Murray proved that Thursday night. Making even Greg Olson look like an effective offensive coordinator.
Playing with one arm tied behind your back can be no fun, and maybe there was a reason Greg Olson’s play calling has been so bland and predictable. Very hard to be effective in the NFL with a rookie QB and a non-existent run game.
I still think this coaching staff especially Greg Olson deserve plenty of criticism. Especially with the fact they continued to start the ineffective McFadden and MJD over Murray until week 12!
That mistake may have cost the Raiders a few more wins this season, and ultimately the coaches job.
If Murray comes back healthy to finish the season, Raider Nation can now at least see what Olson can do with an effective running game at his disposal. No excuses, and maybe one chance at redemption for Greg Olson in Oakland.