Oakland Raiders: 5 players who must be better in Week 6

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OAKLAND, CA – DECEMBER 03: BruceIrvin No. 51 and Khalil Mack No. 52 of the Oakland Raiders celebrate after a play against the New York Giants during their NFL game at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on December 3, 2017 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images) /

Bruce Irvin

Bruce Irvin showed up early in the loss to the Los Angeles Chargers, registering a sack, but then was rendered useless the rest of the way. This is not the season many expected from him, as he was expected to step in and lead this defense, but has been just another player along the defensive line so far.

Irvin has the kind of motor you look for in an edge rusher, but on many occasions, he is seen jogging to the play, or giving up early. He had his best game of the season on Sunday, according to Pro Football Focus, and the team needs him to take the next step against his former team in Week 6.

The Raiders have seen progress from their rookies on the defensive line, including Arden Key, PJ Hall, and Maurice Hurst, all of which have had shining moments this season. Irvin has to be the leader, and it will be interesting to see what kind of passion he brings against a team for whom he was once a member of the Legion of Boom.

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