Las Vegas Raiders: Win over Pittsburgh could be a tone-setter for 2021 season

Las Vegas Raiders: Win over Pittsburgh could be a tone-setter for 2021 season

Offensive Weapons Performing

In the first half of the Week 1 victory over Baltimore, it seemed as though Derek Carr was trying to force the ball to star tight end, Darren Waller. This led to a handful of incomplete passes and stopped drives, as Baltimore constantly double-covered Waller. Many of those viewing the game questioned Las Vegas’ game plan and whether or not the offense could return to the level that they were at last season.

After two games, it’s safe to say that they have. The offense looks sharp, especially Derek Carr who leads the league in passing yards with 817. And those 817 haven’t just been to Waller, either. In week 2, Carr consistently spread out the football, targeting nine different receivers throughout the game.

That’s an indication that not only is Carr sharing the wealth, but the team’s weapons are consistently finding ways to get open.

The team’s success has come without major yardage on the ground. Josh Jacobs did have two touchdowns in Week 1, but none of the team’s backs have run for more than 35 in a game. If Las Vegas wants to continue to score effectively, they’ll have to get their run game going.

The offensive line has been stretched thin as well. Richie Incognito and Denzelle Good both didn’t play on Sunday, and rookie Alex Leatherwood left the game in the first half after suffering a back strain. So, the team was forced to play with three backup linemen. But give credit where it is due.

Those backups were able to give Carr enough time to make big plays when they were needed the most.

Even with the team’s struggles on the ground and their injuries on the line, they have done an exceptional job against two very good defenses. Putting up 26 points against Pittsburgh was especially important, as Pittsburgh is considered by some to be the best defense in the league.