Oakland Raiders: Notes And Observations From Preseason Game #2

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Aug 22, 2015; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Oakland Raiders running back Latavius Murray (28) dives for a touchdown in the first quarter against the Minnesota Vikings at TCF Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports

4. Latavius Murray Looks Like The Real Deal

There were a lot of questions swirling around Murray this offseason. He provided the only spark and sign of life in Oakland’s running game in 2014, but many wondered if he had the physical and mental make up to be the Raiders’ lead running back in 2015.

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With a strong offseason, and an even stronger exhibition season, Murray seems to be answering those questions as he has firmly seized control of the starting job. He followed up a strong performance against the Rams in which he averaged nearly six yards a carry, with an equally strong performance against the Vikings, averaging five yards a carry to go along with his touchdown.

Yes, it’s an incredibly small sample size. But Murray has flashed speed, power, fantastic vision of the field, and a decisive running style. He’s bringing some life and fire to Oakland’s running game – something they’ve lacked for a number of years now.

Assuming Murray can keep this up and stay healthy this season, the Raiders are going to have a running game that has the potential to be as explosive as their passing game. Defenses will need to game plan for both the pass and run – something they didn’t have to do last season – and it will benefit the offense as a whole.

Next: End Of A Reclamation Project?

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