Raiders at Chargers 2022 Week 1: Positive takeaways in defeat
By Jason Willis
Although the Raiders would lose their first game of the season, it certainly was not all bad. Here are three positives going forward to week two.
The Las Vegas Raiders lost to the Los Angeles Chargers 24-19 in Week 1, a game where they struggled mightily at times. Derek Carr threw three interceptions, the offensive line was terrible at times, and the defense had real issues keeping Justin Herbert under wraps in the first half.
However, there were a bunch of positives too, as the Silver and Black were still in it late, and had a chance to win in the fourth quarter. Going forward, they will have to be a lot cleaner, especially up front along the offensive line, but the talent is there for this to be a special season.
Here, we take a look at some positives from the Week 1 loss.
Raiders at Chargers 2022 Week 1: Positive takeaways in defeat
1. Davante Adams is still Davante Adams
When the Raiders acquired star wideout, Davante Adams, from the Green Bay Packers there was a section of fans who were worried he would not be the same without MVP quarterback Aaron Rodgers.
Instead, the Raiders worked to put those rumors to bed the first chance they got. As Carr hit Adams short on the first play of the game, they quickly revealed their game plan to the world: Get Adams the ball. Lining up all over the field and playing a variety of roles, he was able to rack up ten receptions for 141 yards and a touchdown in his Las Vegas debut.
Most evident in this one was the connection between him and Carr. On the touchdown reception, this was on full display as Carr put the ball in a spot that only his receiver could get it and Adams came away with a catch that few players in the NFL can make.
Going forward in 2022, Adams will be the backbone of the Las Vegas offense throughout the entirety of the season. Of course, he is not likely to have 141 yards in every game, but his impact will be felt regardless. Whether he is exploding for another huge game or drawing coverage away from Waller and Renfrow, he is still one of the NFL’s best players.