Reasons for optimism despite Las Vegas Raiders loss in opener

Sep 11, 2022; Inglewood, California, USA; Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert (10) is pressured by Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby (98) as he sets to throw a pass in the third quarter at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 11, 2022; Inglewood, California, USA; Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert (10) is pressured by Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby (98) as he sets to throw a pass in the third quarter at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports
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Sep 11, 2022; Inglewood, California, USA; Las Vegas Raiders wide receiver Davante Adams (17) attempts to break free from the grasp of Los Angeles Chargers safety Alohi Gilman (32) in the first half at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 11, 2022; Inglewood, California, USA; Las Vegas Raiders wide receiver Davante Adams (17) attempts to break free from the grasp of Los Angeles Chargers safety Alohi Gilman (32) in the first half at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Reasons for optimism despite Las Vegas Raiders loss in the opener

Raiders WR Davante Adams is already delivering the goods

More than likely, you’re going to be reading Davante Adams’ name in several publications, listing him as the most impressive, or as a stud. It’s well deserved when you consider how large of an impact Adams had. Quarterback Derek Carr went his way with 17 targets on the day. You could argue that it was a bit lopsided on the signal-callers part, but it’s hard not to do so. Adams was putting on a clinic in route-running and movement, just ask Asante Samuel Jr. When your friend and college teammate is shredding the secondary, who wouldn’t be inclined to look his way?

On the opening drive alone, Raiders fans witnessed how much of a game-changer Adams is. He accumulated 54 yards during that drive, including the “first” first down of the year. According to Josh Dubow of the Associated Press, it was the most yardage by a Raiders player since 1991.

It goes without saying that Adams will be just fine without Aaron Rodgers moving forward. As a side note, Adams also added to his growing personal stash of accomplishments. He now owns 679 career receptions, which is seventh-most in league history through 117 games. Yesterday was also Adams’ 75th game with five-plus catches since entering the league (2014), equaling Antonio Brown, who also shares that feat for fifth place.

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