Oakland Raiders: A Few Keys To Beating The New York Jets
By Kevin Saito
Set the Tempo
The Raiders established some early rhythm with Derek Carr leading a touchdown drive on a short field after a head-scratching onside kick attempt to open the game. But the Raiders offense capitalized, going 50 yards in seven plays for the touchdown.
But the defense gave that momentum right back, allowing Marcus Mariota to lead the Titans back down the field, going 75 yards in 12 plays to tie the game.
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Oakland has to come out against the Jets and set the tempo early. They need to not give momentum back to New York by allowing them to move the ball and put points on the board.
The Raiders defense was stout in the second half of the game against Tennessee, giving up just 174 yards. 139 of those came through the air with the defense holding Mariota to 57 percent passing (15 of 26) after allowing him 116 yards on 67 percent passing (10 of 15) in the first half.
The secondary – Sean Smith and T.J. Carrie in particular – much maligned through camp and the exhibition season, played well against a talented and potent Titans passing attack.
To beat the Jets, the Raiders are going to need to come out early and impose their will. They’re going to need to put together two solid halves of football – especially on the defensive side of the ball.
If they can do that, if they can be as physically imposing early and take the fight out of a largely lackluster Jets offense – and come out firing on all cylinders on offense – it could potentially be an early day for the starters.
Set the tempo. Dictate it to New York. And do not, under any circumstances, let them hang around – because sometimes, teams that let other teams hang around, manage to get themselves bit in the backside.