Raiders vs Cardinals 2022 Week 2: Things we learned

Sep 18, 2022; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray (1) is pursued by Las Vegas Raiders safety Johnathan Abram (24) on a three-yard touchdown run with no time left in regulation at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 18, 2022; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray (1) is pursued by Las Vegas Raiders safety Johnathan Abram (24) on a three-yard touchdown run with no time left in regulation at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
3 of 3
Next
Aug 14, 2022; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Las Vegas Raiders safety Johnathan Abram (24) in the first half against the Minnesota Vikings at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 14, 2022; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Las Vegas Raiders safety Johnathan Abram (24) in the first half against the Minnesota Vikings at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /

Raiders vs Cardinals 2022 Week 2: Things we learned

The Secondary Showed Some Bright Spots

For the most part, the secondary actually looked good at many points in the game. Rock Ya-Sin especially shined, forcing veteran receiver AJ Green to drop a couple of big catches before eventually catching the game-tying two-point conversion. Duron Harmon also made a big play, forcing a turnover on downs in overtime after knocking the ball free from the receiver’s hands. Johnathan Abram also had another good week, nearly intercepting the ball on the goal line in the fourth quarter and making seven tackles.

A great example of the secondary’s ability to cover is that Kyler Murray run for 28-yards to keep the game alive and escape the pressure. And when his throws weren’t quick slants and dump-off passes, he often needed to leave the pocket and hope that a receiver became open once the play broke down.

Now, this secondary is far from perfect. But they are missing key pieces in Anthony Avarett and Tre’von Moehrig. They still have lots of room to grow and improve, especially when healthy. But what’s important is that they showed that they can be a formidable group, especially when it comes down to the wire.