3 things to focus on in preseason game No. 2 for the Oakland Raiders

The Oakland Raiders are fresh off a preseason win against the Los Angeles Rams. Last year’s best NFC team fell to the revamped Raiders offense on Saturday night in Oakland, California. The week of joint practices proved to be helpful to the Raiders as the run game was productive against one of the NFL’s best rushing defenses.

The Oakland Raiders have a short week before taking off to Arizona to play the Cardinals. Not only did the raiders prove to be a team going in the right direction, but all of their first-round rookies played well.

DeAndre Washington took it to the house from 7 yards out on the first series proving what a valuable player he is at running back gaining 4.0 yards per carry. I’m looking for him to make the same impact on the Cardinals defense which struggled last year against the run ending the season at 31st in rushing defense.

The offensive line should be able to get some push going considering the lackluster Cardinals defense from last year. Even without Gabe Jackson, the Raiders rush offense did well against one of the NFL’s best front sevens. The offense produced a total of 407 yards with 149 coming from the rushing game. I’m hoping to see Josh Jacobs get some action this week; he’s proven he has a great attitude and a willingness to learn.

The defense had a great game, too. The Rams were held to 190 total yards and while Todd Gurley didn’t play in the game, he’s one of the best in the game and Jacobs spent a few days with him. You can only hope anyone drafted can be at the level Todd Gurley is currently in his career.

Clelin Ferrell had two tackles, both solo. He showed good promise and seems to be adjusting well to the speed of the NFL. I’m hoping the Cardinals pass more and he can pin his ears back and go after the quarterback – something the Raiders need desperately.

For the game, I’ll be looking for who’s going to replace Gabe Jackson on the Raiders offensive line, hopefully, Josh Jacobs getting involved more, and Clelin Ferrell having a standout showdown against a Cardinals offensive line that’s well below average.