Raiders: 3 reasons Josh Jacobs is about to go off
Reason No. 1: Raiders HC Josh McDaniels will stick with Josh Jacobs
You could certainly make the argument that Jacobs is playing hard but is doing so to get a new contract. Regardless, you keep riding the hot hand if you’re Josh McDaniels. The former New England Patriots offensive coordinator was known for his run game prowess, and now Raiders fans are starting to see why he earned that reputation.
Looking at the Raiders’ numbers right now, they don’t exactly scream offensive dominance. For a coach that’s been heralded as an offensive genius, his team is still finding its footing. That’s especially true for the passing offense. To counterbalance this, you can see McDaniels is starting to trust Jacobs more and more. Fans were critical of Jacobs’s usage earlier in the season when his carries were the tale of two halves.
Nevertheless, McDaniels’ offense has a proven track record of making the most of the run game. If we’re following this trend in 2022, the numbers paint an optimistic outlook for Jacobs. Last season, the Patriots finished eighth in rushing yards and second in rushing touchdowns. The year prior, they were fourth and sixth in those same categories, respectively. McDaniels’ commitment to the run bodes well for Jacobs this season, whether he returns in 2023 or not.