3 Key storylines to watch for when the Raiders take on Carolina in Week 1

3 Key storylines to watch for when the Raiders take on Carolina in Week 1

1. Wrangling in Christian McCaffrey

The all-purpose bellcow back is a true dual threat, with the ability to run the ball in a variety of schemes and also play receiver; catching passes from out of the backfield or lined up as a wide receiver. He statistically dominated the 2019 season and for that reason was the consensus number 1 pick in fantasy drafts leading up to the 2020 season.

All eyes will be on the Raiders defense, and their ability to slow down the Pro-Bowl RB is their litmus test as to how much they actually improved from 2019 to now. The biggest addition to neutralize McCaffrey will be Cory Littleton. Widely regarded as one of the best linebackers in coverage in all of the NFL. Littleton has had a history of dominating against McCaffrey and the Panthers in the past. We will see if he can repeat his previous performance.

2. How much will rookie receivers contribute?

The Raiders double-dipped at the receiver position in this past draft. Picking up Henry Ruggs III in the first round and Bryan Edwards in the 3rd round. Ruggs being a Week 1 starter was a given, but Edwards was gradually edging in on a starting position during training camp.

When Tyrell Williams was put on the shelf with season ending shoulder surgery, Edwards was officially promoted to starter.

Both of these receivers will be thrust into the spotlight today, but the question is how much will they actually contribute from a production standpoint. Don’t be surprised to see their opportunities limited and the Raiders utilize multiple tight-end groupings to confuse the defense and be in heavy run personnel to assist the ground and pound attack of Josh Jacobs.

That being said, if the Raiders do fall behind, they will need big plays from these rookie receivers.

3. Will the revamped secondary impress?

The Raiders have seen a youth movement in the secondary. Trayvon Mullen, Johnathan Abram, and Damon Arnette are listed as starters, and between the three of them, there are only 11 NFL starts under their belts. Mullen started ten games to close the 2019 season, Abram only saw one start before injuring his shoulder, and Arnette is a rookie.

They face DJ Moore, Robby Anderson, and Curtis Samuel; a receiving corps who can beat a secondary in a variety of ways. Moore saw 87 catches for 1175 yards last season, while Robby Anderson torched Trayvon Mullen in the young corners toughest start in 2019. Add in the former passing game coordinator from the National Championship LSU Tigers now calling plays for these receivers, today has the makings of a tough test for the secondary.