Break-down Week 17 (NYG Giants)

Game-breaker: The Raiders were outplayed against a common opponent who really was not considered to be a tough get. However, since the Raiders are so torn as a franchise right now, the biggest spark came from the other tight end, Michael Mayer. He, along with Ashton Jeanty, were critical to keeping this game credible.

Tale-teller: Geno Smith left the game with an injury in the second half and didn't return. Didn't matter much because the game was out-of-hand. Even with Smith, the Raiders haven't done well to keep games close. There has been no sense of fluidity or consistency by many players.

Trend-setter: So far this year, the defense has been somewhat better than the offense although there have been some really rough games. There is one linebacker that has risen to the occasion more often than not, and he is Devin White. He is second in the NFL in tackles.

Most-Telling Performances Week 17

Raiders MVP: TE Michael Mayer

Mayer had 9 receptions for 89 yards in a game that was not full of highlights for the Raiders.

Raiders Offensive MVP: Michael Mayer

He played well in Bowers' absence.

Raiders Defensive MVP: LB Devin White

White has received this award before but he does make an impact in the game with his tackling ability.

Raiders Breakout Player: DT Tonka Hemingway

This rookie had a sack which is a showing that he is capable of getting to the passer.

Raiders Regressing Player: DT Adam Butler

He had only one tackle in this game and was a critical piece of this defensive line yet has not been able to produce.

Getting a Back on Track (Vol. 15)

In this wild matchup against the NYG Giants, Ashton Jeanty couldn't really get going. He went up against a big defensive line that was pushing the line back and sealing the edges. Jeanty did his best to get to the second level but there was nothing he could do. He was at times trying to bounce the ball back outside but even then the Giants were too quick. After last week's great performance, I was expecting a better outcome from the running game. But one could see that the NYG were too big and physical for any type of back going up against our measly offensive line.