Oakland Raiders Week 11 X-Factors against the Cincinnati Bengals
By Matt Holder
Nevin Lawson
One of the most dynamic playmakers in Cincinnati’s offense is slot receiver, Tyler Boyd. The University of Pittsburgh product had a breakout year last season as he eclipsed the 1,000-yard mark and hauled in seven touchdowns. While he likely won’t match the scoring production from a year ago, this year Boyd is one pace to join the four-digit club again.
If the receiver’s production doesn’t scare defensive coordinator Paul Guenther enough, having to utilize the defense’s second option to cover Boyd should. Lamarcus Joyner went down with a non-contact injury against the Chargers and it sounds like he will be out this week. As a result, Nevin Lawson will likely be thrust into the starting lineup.
The veteran defensive back has only seen a handful of snaps since returning from suspension, so he’s a bit of a wildcard for the Silver and Black. In Detriot, Lawson was a starter for the better part of the last four seasons which makes him the team’s most reliable option to replace Joyner. Hopefully, the former Lion isn’t too rusty because Boyd could be a problem for Oakland.