The Raiders roll on in week 2 to silence the terrible towel in the Steelers home opener at Heinz Field. A long standing historic AFC rivalry dating back to some of the biggest games of the 70's and 80's. Raiders QB Derek Carr is silencing the critics and flourishing in Jon Grudens system and on early pace to recreate his MVP calibre form of 2016. He leads the NFL with 817 yards after 2 games. The team has been hit by a slew of key injuries to the offensive line and even without Pro Bowl running back Josh Jacobs, the Raiders air attack has secured the wins through an impressive receiver corp of Darren Waller, Henry Ruggs, Bryan Edwards and Mr Reliable Hunter Renfrow. Ruggs 61 yard TD catch in the game reminiscent of the 'speed kills' mantra coveted by legendary Raiders coach and owner Al Davis.
The previously much maligned Raiders defence has been rebuilt, and despite some injuries, the young group is channelling some of the nasty physicality of the old time Raiders thanks to DC Gus Bradley. If the defence can grow as the season progresses the team could be a dramatic playoff contender.
It's only week two of a seventeen game season but it's great to see the team silencing some of the preseason Raider hating NFL media.
Da RAAAAAIIIIDDEEEERRSSSSS roll on!
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