Oakland Raiders: 5 Attainable Goals For The Team In 2015

Dec 28, 2014; Denver, CO, USA; Oakland Raiders quarterback Derek Carr (4) in the second quarter against the Denver Broncos at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. The Broncos defeated the Raiders 47-14. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports

Derek Carr Must Improve His Numbers Across The Board

With 3,270 yards, a respectable 58.1 percent completion rate, 21 touchdowns and just 12 interceptions, Derek Carr had a solid rookie season. Especially given the hand he was dealt – no running game, inconsistent receivers, and a perpetually horrible game plan by an inept coaching staff. Carr showed flashes of how good he can be, and that he has the potential to be a franchise quarterback for Oakland for years to come.

That being said, Carr must take the next step. He cannot afford a sophomore slump, and absolutely must improve his numbers across the board. Part of Oakland’s terrible third down conversion rate can be put on his doorstep, and a few of his 12 interceptions last season were because of bonehead rookie mistakes like trying to force balls where they just won’t fit.

Though he made some poor decisions with the ball over the course of the season, he also made some tremendously smart, savvy, and near veteran like decisions with the ball as well. He made some truly astounding throws and showed that he has terrific arm strength and a quick release.

But in 2015, Carr has to improve his numbers across the board. It will help that he is not expected to shoulder the entire burden of the offensive load as HC Jack Del Rio and Musgrave will look to balance it out. Carr will not be the focal point of the offense, and the moves they’ve made to strengthen the line and improve the quality of the running game will only benefit Carr and the offense as a whole.

To be successful, and for the team to be competitive in the coming season, Carr must cut way down on the bonehead mistakes, and play like a veteran. He must improve his numbers across the board and be a more efficient quarterback.

And with the improvements Oakland has made this offseason, as well as trying to take the burden off of him, it’s entirely possible for him to do so.

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