Getting a Back on Track (Vol. 1)

After two games, it has been made apparent that the Raiders have been relying most heavily on the arm of Geno Smith. Rather than featuring a formidable rushing attack and some strikes down the field, the Raiders with new offensive coordinator Chip Kelly, have some work to do. Although the first game of the season was a success, some things still need some tightening and tweaking in order to get the offense where it needs to be. There is significant optimism in the rookies, however, without getting Ashton Jeanty going in any major way, it's putting more pressure on the passing game which was why the Raiders fell short this past Monday night. Evidently, with such inefficiency it's causing Smith to be too forceful down the field and not even look for his rookie back who by all means has the talent to be extremely effective. Perhaps the Raiders are trying to ease Jeanty into the league because he had very few carries in the preseason. Many are starting to wonder what the direction is for this team with such ineffectiveness by guys like Jeanty. It's been a small dosage of Zamir White, Dylan Laube, and Ashton Jeanty. Guys like Raheem Mostert who was brought in to spell a guy like Jeanty, just can't afford a break as he is not cleared to play yet. Getting less than 12 carries is understandable if they're trying to groom Jeanty, however, it's affecting the confidence of those involved, especially the fans who are very eager to experience a better result. It seems the head coach, Pete Carroll, wants to see changes but in turn expressed his trust in the offense and that he is not worried. He mentioned during a press conference this week they're not concerned with it because Jeanty is not a 25 carries type running back just yet. It will be interesting to see in Week 3 against the Washington Commanders if following a bad game they will employ Jeanty a little more.

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