Oakland Raiders: Derek Carr in position for first win at Arrowhead
The circumstances have aligned for quarterback Derek Carr’s first win at Arrowhead Stadium and a season series sweep for the Oakland Raiders.
For the Oakland Raiders, the question is, if not now, then when? There’s skepticism about quarterback Derek Carr’s ability to perform in cold weather. Check the weather forecast, and you’ll see high 50 degree temperatures for kickoff at Arrowhead Stadium on Sunday.
Wait, what about the Chiefs’ two-high safety scheme that limits explosive plays downfield? Kansas City placed Eric Berry, one of the best safeties in the game, on injured reserve after Week 1.
Then, there’s cornerback Marcus Peters, who may give up some plays, but he’ll also force turnovers. During Wednesday’s media press conference, head coach Andy Reid announced the one-game suspension for his top coverage defender.
Kansas City signed cornerback Darrelle Revis late November, but we haven’t seen Revis Island since the 2015 season. By the way, the Chiefs defense ranks 30th in total yards allowed and just surrendered 488 to the Jets in Week 13.
Sure, wideout Amari Cooper won’t take the field at 100 percent or at all, but there’s no excuse why the Raiders can’t win Sunday’s game with their rival on the ropes. The Silver and Black haven’t won at Arrowhead Stadium since Week 8 of the 2012 campaign.
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For whatever reason, Carr hasn’t been impressive when playing the Chiefs on the road. He’s yet to eclipse the 200-yard mark while completing 50 percent of his passes in Kansas City. The 26-year old doesn’t need the gaudy numbers, but it’s important to move the ball efficiently.
In the previous year, you can argue the pinky injury affected his grip in the cold weather. Now, without injury or the bitter freezing air, there’s an opportunity to dissect a reeling team’s poor defense. It’s time to capitalize on a desperate opponent looking to end a four-game skid.
Wideout Michael Crabtree returns to action after serving a one-game suspension for the chain incident with Denver Broncos cornerback Aqib Talib.
Expect running back Marshawn Lynch to exhibit his best behavior with the officials to avoid another ejection. The 31-year old tailback should have a productive outing as a ball-carrier against a run defense that’s surrendered 100-plus yards to five consecutive opponents.
Furthermore, the Chiefs haven’t forced a turnover in two games. Lynch doesn’t have an issue with ball security. Carr’s last interception occurred in Week 11 against the New England Patriots.
Oakland should have multiple options in attacking Kansas City’s defense. Carr can challenge the secondary with Crabtree’s reliable hands or wideout Cordarrelle Patterson’s speed. He can also turn around and hand off to Beast Mode who’s averaging 4.3 yards per carry with four touchdowns over the past four contests.
According to ESPN.com reporter Dan Graziano, the Raiders hope to see Cooper suit up on Sunday, and why not? He torched the Chiefs defense for 210 yards and two touchdowns in the first meeting. Nonetheless, the offense still has enough to attack the opponent in various spots.
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After taking the losing end of consecutive season series sweeps, the Raiders can return the favor with Carr breaking through another personal barrier with the Chiefs. The Raiders’ franchise signal-caller proved he could lead this team to victory over the bitter rival in Week 7. Now, he must do it in a hostile environment with mounting pressure to win the division.