Oakland Raiders Week 9 X-Factors against the Detroit Lions
By Matt Holder
Darren Waller
The NFL’s best-kept secret is no longer anonymous. Last week, Houston’s defensive game plan was to take away Waller and rightfully so. He ranks second among tight ends with 46 receptions and his 496 receiving yards is good enough for third-best at the position.
With the defense keying in on the pass-catcher, last Sunday was his least productive game of the season. However, Detroit gives Waller a perfect opportunity for a bounce-back game.
In the last two weeks, the Lions have allowed 19 catches for 157 yards and two touchdowns to opposing tight ends. Also, Kyle Rudolph and Irv Smith Jr. had the best games of their seasons and Evan Engram put together his second-most productive game against the Motor City. If the last couple of weeks are any indication, Waller the Baller will be on full display this weekend.