Oakland Raiders Week 2 Preview: Keys to the Game

September 13, 2015; Oakland, CA, USA; Oakland Raiders quarterback Derek Carr (4) passes the football against the Cincinnati Bengals during the first quarter at O.co Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports

Summary

If the Raiders can keep Justin Forsett contained, it will be almost certain doom for the Ravens offense that is missing its’ blindside protector and has a very thin group of receiving options. At that point, the Raiders’ talented edge rushers should be able to disrupt anything Joe Flacco wants to do and the Ravens offense will sputter just as they did a week ago. While the absence of Justin Ellis might hurt the run defense a bit, the two backup safeties who could be a serious liability against a better passing offense may actually be an asset in run support.

Meanwhile the Raider offense will have to get it going this week. Having Carr back healthy and avoiding any unnecessary stiff arms will help immensely, but Bill Musgrave will have to commit to running the ball consistently and finding a way to get the tight ends more involved in the passing game to give Carr more opportunities to create from the pocket, something he should be able to do without having to worry about Terrell Suggs in his face.