Oakland Raiders at Denver Broncos: 3 things to watch in Week 17

OAKLAND, CALIFORNIA - SEPTEMBER 09: Tyrell Williams #16 of the Oakland Raiders reacts after making a play for first down in the fourth quarter against the Denver Broncos at RingCentral Coliseum on September 09, 2019 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images) /

3 of 4

OAKLAND, CALIFORNIA – SEPTEMBER 09: Josh Jacobs #28 of the Oakland Raiders sits on the bench during their NFL game against the Denver Broncos at RingCentral Coliseum on September 09, 2019 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Robert Reiners/Getty Images) /

State of the run game

Had the Raiders been officially eliminated from contention at this point, it would be safe to say that offensive rookie of the year favorite Josh Jacobs would likely be a scratch in the season finale. But now with a small but realistic sense of hope for the postseason, we all know that Jacobs, the warrior he is, is hungry to get back on the field.

Per Vic Tafur, Jacobs went through Tuesday’s walkthrough and Greg Olsen said it was “encouraging.” Earlier in the week, Gruden noted that Jacobs was among the banged-up players with a shot at suiting up Sunday. Even if he suits up, Jalen Richard and Deandre Washington will be instrumental for Oakland to win at Denver.

Last week, Washington had 23 carries for 85 yards and a touchdown, additionally catching two targets for 21 yards receiving. Whether Jacobs is active or not, the Raiders run game with Washington and Richard is key to monitor on Sunday.

Home/Las Vegas Raiders News