Raiders: 4 offensive players who have been crucial down the stretch

Raiders: 4 offensive players who have been crucial down the stretch

Derek Carr, Quarterback

The raw numbers for Derek Carr have been ugly in the last three games as he has thrown for 692 yards, three touchdowns, four interceptions, and has lost two fumbles. You can come through some of the turnovers and see that defenders made great plays or Carr was just being aggressive down the field, but either way you slice it has not been the prettiest football from the quarterback.

However, he has come through with some huge plays and big drives when it has counted the most. Against Cleveland, Carr drove down the field and set up Daniel Carlson for the game-winning field goal on the road. Against Denver, he did not have to drive down the field for a game-winning kick, but he commanded a great drive to kill off the game and made the crucial play to Foster Moreau on third down after the 2-minute warning.

The most impressive drive however was against the Indianapolis Colts and their excellent defense with Pro Bowlers at every level. After an Indy field goal tied the game up at 20, Carr drove down the field to set up Carlson for the game-winner once again. His best play of that game and perhaps of the last 3 weeks was an absolute dart to Hunter Renfrow on 3rd and 10 after evading a blitzing Darius Leonard in the pocket.

Carr’s numbers have not been great as we have said but when it comes to winning time he has responded with his trademark moxie and poise. He will need to be better against the LA Chargers and his job should be considerably easier with the return of Darren Waller to the offense. This is the biggest game of Carr’s career so far and he will need to play like it to keep this crazy season going for at least one more week.