Raiders: 3 Keys to victory against the Denver Broncos in Week 16

Raiders: 3 Keys to victory against the Denver Broncos in Week 16

Take shots downfield

We called this same formula last week as being a key to victory, and although the Raiders did miraculously come out victorious against the Browns, the Raiders clearly did not get the memo in this one.

Derek Carr and the Silver and Black squeaked out a win which, to be honest — should not draw much praise. A win is a win, but we cannot hide the fact this Browns team was playing with third-string players as Carr continued to check down. This will lead to failure if this continues to be the case against a Broncos defense that will be at full strength.

A lot of the blame here can be put on the play-calling and ability of the receivers. Even if Carr made some questionable throws, as a whole the offense was lethargic.

Hopefully, the Raiders can welcome back tight end Darren Waller this week, but either way, Carr must go downfield more. The short-passing plays will not lead to victory and will likely doom the Raiders if they continue this style of play.

With a fully healthy group of receivers in this one, maybe Carr can go downfield and replicate his dazzling displays from his earlier season form. He will need to because this Broncos defense is stout and will snuff out the short passing plays early and often.