This season, there’s been a lot of talk about the Raiders’ offensive growth, largely due to Kirk Cousins performing better than expected. However, the overall balance of the offense has been lacking.
Unfortunately, the Raiders will be on the hunt for a more consistent running game this Sunday, and they’ll have to do it without Mike Washington Jr.
The rookie running back is questionable for the game against the Rams due to foot and back injuries, which leaves the Raiders in a tight spot as they look to end a three-game losing streak.
Considering the challenges the offense has had establishing a reliable ground game, Washington’s absence could complicate matters even more.
Clearly, the Raiders need to make strides in their running game, but doing so with fewer players available could make this even tougher.
Ashton Jeanty remains a focal point in the backfield, but the team has struggled to create the necessary space to effectively utilize him. Not having Washington means Jeanty will lack a backup to share the workload in what is a crucial game for the Raiders.
With a 3-3 record, the Raiders are up against a 2-4 Rams team that’s also facing disappointment this season. Both teams are trying to halt a downward spiral.
For the Raiders, establishing a dependable running game could alleviate several issues contributing to their current skid.
Far too frequently, minimal gains or setbacks have left quarterback Kirk Cousins dealing with tough passing situations. Moreover, when they get close to the red zone, translating scoring chances into touchdowns has proven difficult.
This was particularly evident in last Sunday’s close 33-30 defeat to the Bills.
The Raiders only converted on two of five red-zone opportunities, and one time, they even reached Buffalo’s 2-yard line but failed to get into the end zone, settling for a field goal instead.
In a match decided by just three points, those missed chances were significant.
While losing Washington doesn’t change the ongoing need for better blocking and execution in the running game, it does limit coach Klint Kubiak’s options as he seeks solutions.
Kubiak made adjustments to the offensive line against Buffalo, bringing in Caleb Rogers to replace Jackson Powers-Johnson at right guard. This move highlighted the urgency for a lineup that can produce more consistent movement.
The stakes are high against the Rams, and missing Washington could complicate this already challenging task.
Yet, the fundamental need for improvement remains.
The Raiders have proved they can compete with strong teams, as shown in their narrow losses to both the Chiefs and the Bills.
This Sunday offers yet another opportunity to turn that competitiveness into a win.
