Oakland Raiders Week 12 X-Factors against the New York Jets
By Matt Holder
Nevin Lawson
For the second straight week, Nevin Lawson is inserted into the starting lineup and will play a pivotal role in Oakland’s defense. The cornerback was impressive in his first start against the Bengals, allowing two catches for zero yards and a passer rating of 70.1 when targeted.
What makes that outing even more impressive is it came against Tyler Boyd, who is an impressive young slot receiver.
As great as Lawson’s performance was, the NFL is a week-by-week league and Sunday presents a new challenge.
In the offseason, New York shelled out a good amount of cash ($28 million over three years) for wide receiver Jamison Crowder. So far the investment has worked out as Crowder accumulated 53 catches, 562 yards, and three touchdowns. Considering how unstable the Jets quarterback situation has been, those numbers are even more impressive.
Especially with how well Daryl Worley and Trayvon Mullen have played, expect Adam Gase and the Jets offense to target Lawson in coverage. The defensive back will be making his second start of the season, so Gang Green may feel they have a matchup advantage with Crowder. A few early pass breakups by the cornerback could significantly alter the game plan for New York.