Oakland Raiders Week 3 X-Factors against the Minnesota Vikings
By Matt Holder
Josh Mauro
Oakland signed the veteran defensive lineman Josh Mauro to improve the team’s run defense, which allowed third most rushing yards in 2018. So far, so good as the Raiders defense currently ranks in the top five for rushing yards allowed, and Mauro has been a big reason for the improvement.
However, Minnesota’s ground game presents a significant challenge for the Silver and Black.
In the offseason, the Vikings added Gary Kubiak as an offensive advisor, and he is known for utilizing zone and outside stretch concepts in the running game. Running back Dalvin Cook has reaped the benefits of this hire, as he is the NFL’s leading rusher with 265 yards through two games. Slowing down Cook will be key for Oakland’s success on defense.
Minnesota likes to use running game and play ball control on offense. With the emphasis on outside runs, Kubiak’s scheme puts a lot of pressure on defensive ends, so Mauro must answer the call and step up for the Raiders. If not, it could be a long day for the defense.