Derek Carr (Dec. 31, 2017 - Source: Harry How/Getty Images North America)
Derek Carr (Dec. 31, 2017 - Source: Harry How/Getty Images North America)
Oakland Raiders quarterback Derek Carr (Dec. 31, 2017 - Source: Harry How/Getty Images North America) Oakland Raiders quarterback Derek Carr (Dec. 31, 2017 - Source: Harry How/Getty Images North America)
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OAKLAND- The Raiders should be a very effective offensive unit in the 2018 season. Derek Carr dealt with a back injury last season which negatively impacted his overall performance. Assuming he is healthy, he should be in playoff form after the team acquired both Jordy Nelson and Martavis Bryant.

Oakland’s trades paved the way for Carr’s success. Obviously, with Nelson, Bryant and Amari Cooper as reliable pass catching targets, there should be no shortage of big plays and no excuses for Carr to fail. Marshawn Lynch had a really big year last season after returning a brief retirement. Lynch ran for 891 yards and seven touchdowns. That is outstanding for a 32-year-old running back.  It’s as if Lynch never intended to actually retire but rather get himself into excellent shape.

Perhaps one of these receivers will eclipse 1,000 yards in 2018. This offense is going to be a nightmare to contain as these receivers can be effective in the slot and on deep patterns. If Lynch follows up with an equally impressive performance running the ball, the Raiders could dethrone the Kansas City Chiefs quickly.

To make this simple, the Raiders should be a top 12 scoring offenses. There won’t be any excuses for failing to be an elite unit this year. Also, with Jon Gruden returning to the NFL, this ought to be a playoff team. Nelson, Cooper and Bryant all averaged at least nine yards per reception. Don’t forget about tight end Jared Cook who averages 12.7 yards per reception.

Will Oakland’s offense easily score 25-30 points per game? Will it be about as impressive as Bryant’s former team, the Pittsburgh Steelers? With all of this offensive firepower, this unit is going to flat-out scary. Teams will fear the “Black Hole” once again.  Get ready for a lot of exciting plays down the field Raiders fans! This is your year to enjoy even though the Raiders will move to Las Vegas soon. Enjoy the show while it lasts!

 

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