5 realistic expectations for the Oakland Raiders in Week 9

DENVER, CO - SEPTEMBER 16: Quarterback Derek Carr #4 of the Oakland Raiders throws a pass during the first quarter of a game against the Denver Broncos at Broncos Stadium at Mile High on September 16, 2018 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
DENVER, CO - SEPTEMBER 16: Quarterback Derek Carr #4 of the Oakland Raiders throws a pass during the first quarter of a game against the Denver Broncos at Broncos Stadium at Mile High on September 16, 2018 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images) /
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OAKLAND, CA – DECEMBER 24: Running back Jalen Richard #30 of the Oakland Raiders picks up 19 yards on a carry against outside linebacker Erik Walden #93 of the Indianapolis Colts in the second quarter on December 24, 2016 at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum in Oakland, California. The Raiders won 33-25. (Photo by Brian Bahr/Getty Images)
OAKLAND, CA – DECEMBER 24: Running back Jalen Richard #30 of the Oakland Raiders picks up 19 yards on a carry against outside linebacker Erik Walden #93 of the Indianapolis Colts in the second quarter on December 24, 2016 at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum in Oakland, California. The Raiders won 33-25. (Photo by Brian Bahr/Getty Images) /

Jalen Richard has ten catches

When it comes to the Raiders offense, Jalen Richard is a focal point, especially now that both Cooper and Lynch are gone. While Doug Martin handles the load as the “feature” back in Oakland, Richard is the guy who can come in and make plays that can really affect the game in a positive way.

This past weekend against the Indianapolis Colts, Richard led the Raiders in receptions, as he hauled in eight in the 42-28 loss. On Thursday, that number could get into double-digits, as he is such a big part of what the Raiders will try to do against the 49ers, as they look to hit him in those short passing routes, and let him get space.

Richard has really developed into a solid offensive weapon during his NFL career, and now that he is the No.2 running back, his touches are only going to go up. Martin proved he can get the tough yards up the middle, but in the passing game, expect Richard to be the first option when you see him lined up on the field.