Oakland Raiders Week 15 X-Factors against the Jacksonville Jaguars
By Matt Holder
Trayvon Mullen
Earlier this week, head coach Jon Gruden announced that defensive back Daryl Worley will start at safety. This shake-up means that Trayvon Mullen will take over as the team’s number one cornerback. The promotion is well deserved as he has allowed a mere 364 receiving yards and a passer rating of 89.2 when targeted.
A wise man once said: “With great power comes great responsibility,” and that saying accurately describes the rookie’s matchup this week. Arguably the most talented payer on the Jags’ offense is wide receiver D.J. Chark. The second-year pass-catcher has been one of the few bright spots for Jacksonville this season, compiling 67 catches for 956 yards and eight touchdowns.
Granted, the Louisiana State product missed last week with an injury and his status for Sunday is in question, but he will make the trip to the Bay Area suggesting he could suit up against the Silver and Black. Regardless of Chark’s game status, it’s important for Mullen to put together a strong performance with his expanded role.
So far, the cornerback has shown the potential to become the Raiders’ number one option and this weekend is an opportunity for him to solidify his status as a building block for the defense.