Las Vegas Raiders: 3 Keys to victory against Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 2

Sep 13, 2021; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Derek Carr (4) celebrates the touchdown scored by running back Josh Jacobs (28) against the Baltimore Ravens during the second half at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 13, 2021; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Derek Carr (4) celebrates the touchdown scored by running back Josh Jacobs (28) against the Baltimore Ravens during the second half at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /
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Sep 13, 2021; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Las Vegas Raiders running back Josh Jacobs (28) runs the ball against the Baltimore Ravens during the second half at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

Las Vegas Raiders: 3 Keys to victory against Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 2

OL must improve as run blockers as well

Despite 2020 Pro Bowl Josh Jacobs battling injury last week, the Las Vegas Raiders front must do a better job creating running lanes for both him and Kenyan Drake. Per Pro Football Focus, the Raiders were the league’s 31st best rushing attack in the NFL’s opening week contests.

The only team worse was the Chicago Bears, who have had a tragic history of offensive line play. Simply put, it is absurd for the Raiders to even be near that level, given the amount of talent and investment placed into the unit. While injuries are a component of their lack of success in the run department, it is not an alibi for a team led by head coach Jon Gruden to be weak in that department.

Ultimately, it puts more pressure on Derek Carr and makes the offense one-dimensional. To only have 45 yards rushing between your top two running backs is not a recipe for success moving forward, and it must change this week.