Oakland Raiders: 3 Standouts vs. Broncos in Week 1

After a tumultuous week, the Oakland Raiders opened up the 2019 NFL season with a win over the Denver Broncos. These were the standouts for Jon Gruden’s team.

The Oakland Raiders opened up Week 1 of the 2019 season with a big win over their AFC North rivals, the Denver Broncos. The Raiders found the end zone twice in the first half. Playing with the lead, their defense was firing on all cylinders against Denver’s offense and keeping their big plays in the holster.

For the second consecutive season, the Raiders held their season-opening opponents to fewer than 100 yards of offense in the first half. On Monday night, it clearly led to success as they secured a victory and move to 1-0.

There were many players that stepped up for Oakland on Monday night, but these were the three primary standouts in the victory.

3. Derek Carr, QB

Raiders quarterback Derek Carr enjoyed a huge night in Week 1 against the Broncos. The veteran quarterback entering a crucial year for his future finished the night going 22-of-26 for 259 yards, one touchdown and no interceptions. Moreover, Carr was at his best when spearheading a 13-play, 95-yard drive that culminated in a 43-yard touchdown pass to Tyrell Williams.

2. Benson Mayowa, DE

Bringing down Joe Flacco twice on Monday night, defensive end Benson Mayowa became the first Raiders defensive player with two sacks in a single game since Khalil Mack during Week 15 of the 2017 season. Mayowa was also the one to force the Broncos to commit a fumble, which led to Carr and the Oakland offense capitalizing with another scoring drive.

1. Josh Jacobs, RB

Raiders rookie Josh Jacobs scored the first touchdown of his NFL career on Monday night with a two-yard scamper into the end zone. The Raiders relied on the rushing attack and Jacobs throughout the night and he delivered a solid outing with 23 carries for 85 yards and two touchdowns on the night while also adding one reception for 28 yards. He looked the part of a first-round pick.