Oakland Raiders: The good, bad, and ugly from week two loss to Denver

Good: Amari Cooper Rebounds

After having Gruden proclaim that his passing offense would run through Amari Cooper, and that Cooper would be the focal point of the offense, big things were expected of him. Most saw him blowing up to have a big year – which, given that he’ll be on his fifth-year option next season – could set the stage for either a big payday with the Raiders, or a contract showdown.

But – he’s going to have to produce first.

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In the first game, he was invisible. He had a couple of targets, but just one catch for nine yards. He was about as big of a non-factor as you’ll find.

Against Denver though, he rebounded from a bad game one – and had what most are hoping is a breakout performance, and a positive portent of things to come.

Cooper had never had success against Denver over his three seasons in the league. The Broncos had done a tremendous job of stifling him. In six career games, Cooper had amassed a grand total of 17 receptions for 160 total yards, and two scores.

Seven proved to be the lucky number for Cooper, as he was targeted 10 times, and made 10 receptions for 116 yards. He was held scoreless, but to very nearly match his career stats – in one game – is a pretty neat trick.

Ultimately, it was in a lost cause, and his efforts went for naught. However, it did show that he still has big game potential, and when given chances, he can still make some plays.

If Carr and Cooper can keep clicking the way they did in Denver, this Raiders offense will pick up dramatically – and, it really needs to.