4 reasonable expectations for the Las Vegas Raiders in 2021 Week 4

4 reasonable expectations for the Las Vegas Raiders in 2021 Week 4

Running the ball well against a poor rush defense

The Raiders rushing attack was anemic the first two weeks against Baltimore and Pittsburgh but it came alive late against the Miami Dolphins. Both the Ravens and Steelers have proven to be top 10 rush defenses so far but we are dealing with small sample size.

Miami was more susceptible to the run and that showed as the Raiders were able to break off a couple big runs in overtime to close out the game. The Chargers’ defense has been solid against the pass but has struggled against the run, giving up more than 100 yards in their first three games.

In fact, they gave up nearly 200 yards to both Dallas and Kansas City and are ranked last in the league in rush yards allowed so far.

The Raiders will be looking to protect Carr by establishing a solid running game and they will be boosted in their efforts with the possible return of Josh Jacobs. The third-year back is listed as questionable and will be a game-time decision on whether he is active or not but he did practice all week.

Peyton Barber has been a capable replacement and has excelled in all facets but he does not have the game-breaking ability of Jacobs.

Even if Jacobs does not return, the Raiders will be looking to establish the run against a Chargers defense that has struggled in that area. Jon Gruden loves to pound the ball between the tackles to set up the play-action pass and we can expect the Raiders to be able to do that well on Monday night.