Oakland Raiders Week 17 X-Factors against the Denver Broncos
By Matt Holder
Daryl Worley
Throughout the year, Oakland’s coaching staff has experimented with Worley by playing him at multiple positions. This speaks to his versatility and he performed well last week while making his first start as a safety. On Sunday, the defensive back’s ability to play multiple positions will likely be on display again.
Ever since the Broncos traded wide receiver Emmanuel Sanders to the 49ers, Courtland Sutton has emerged as a legitimate number one option. The second-year wideout has racked up 68 catches for 1,060 yards and six touchdowns this season. Especially with Trayvon Mullen’s game status up in the air, Worley will likely face off against the young wide receiver frequently and that will be a key matchup for the Silver and Black.
Even if Mullen plays, the veteran defensive back will play a big role in the game. Worley was asked to cover the Chargers’ tight ends a week ago and defensive coordinator Paul Guenther will probably give him a similar assignment this week. Noah Fant has put together an impressive rookie campaign with 39 catches, 558 yards, and three touchdowns.
Covering tight ends has been an issue in Oakland for years, but Worley and the team managed to keep Hunter Henry in check a week ago. Hopefully, this continues because Fant is more than capable of shredding the Raiders’ defense.