Oakland Raiders Preseason: 3 Takeaways vs Rams

2 of 3

OAKLAND, CA – AUGUST 19: Amari Cooper #89 of the Oakland Raiders catches a thirty one yard pass over Kevin Peterson #47 and Cody Davis #38 of the Los Angeles Rams during the second quarter of their preseason NFL football game at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on August 19, 2017 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) /

2. The Raiders Offense Looks to Continue Where They Left Off

Many starters didn’t play a single snap in the first preseason game, including quarterback Derek Carr, running back Marshawn Lynch, wide receiver Amari Cooper, edge-rushers Khalil Mack and Bruce Irvin, and Oakland’s top two draft selections cornerback Gareon Conley and safety Obi Melifonwu. It was extremely concerning that the Raiders were unable to play some of their best players at all during the first preseason game. However, it doesn’t appear that has slowed down the starting offense at all.

More from Las Vegas Raiders

Carr looked great in his first game since Week 16 of last season. Carr went 7-for-9, throwing for 100 yards and two touchdowns. Tight end Lee Smith caught a 19-yard touchdown pass from Carr on Oakland’s first drive and Michael Crabtree caught a 13-yard pass early in the 2nd Quarter. Carr did throw one interception during the game, which can be chalked up to shaking off the rust. Oakland is in a difficult spot in balancing Carr’s health with his need to get in-game reps, but they likely feel much better after his strong performance Saturday.

Lynch only rushed twice against the Rams, however both rushes are likely to excite fans for the upcoming season. Lynch rushed for six yards on his first play and four yards just two plays later. Despite the extremely limited playing time, Lynch looked like his old self on the field and anyone concerned about the fact that he didn’t play at all last season should feel slightly better. Lynch is 31 years old and Oakland likely will save him for the regular season as much as they can, but I think we all hope he gets a few more opportunities next week.

Cooper looked great, despite dealing with a minor leg injury last week during camp, which kept him out of the first game. Cooper led the team in receiving, catching three passes for 46 yards. Early in the second quarter, Cooper caught a 31-yard pass in the middle of three Rams defenders, providing fans with one of the best plays of the night.

Home/Las Vegas Raiders