The Las Vegas Raiders got a much-needed win over the Tennessee Titans on Sunday, ending their four-game losing streak with a 20-10 victory. The defense did its job, forcing three turnovers and holding the Titans to just 225 total yards, while the offense was carried mostly by rookie running back Ashton Jeanty.
The sixth overall pick totaled 86 scrimmage yards while also picking up his third rushing touchdown of the season. While it wasn’t the most efficient day on the ground for Jeanty, as he averaged just 3.3 yards per carry on the day, it was notable that his 23 carries were a season-high.
And Jeanty feels that establishing the run game and setting the mentality of a physical team is essential for this Raiders team, as the offense as a whole is better when they are running the ball, via Raiders YouTube:
“It felt good. I mean, I think just kind of setting that mentality, you know, we’re going to run the ball and when we’re efficient in the run game, we do better as an offense. It makes the job easier in the passing game, and we’ve got to continue to just keep getting better.”
Getting this offense going is essential for the Raiders, and they have struggled with turnovers this season. Particularly, Geno Smith’s interceptions have been a problem, and he threw his league-leading 10th pick on Sunday. However, if the Raiders can establish a more efficient run game, it will take some pressure off Smith.
But the most important thing is that the Raiders were able to halt their skid and pick up their second victory of the season, and Jeanty is hopeful that this win can turn the momentum in their favor:
“It’s big time. I mean, all it takes is one play, one win, to get the momentum rolling in the right way, and we’re going to continue to get better.”
The Raiders do have the pieces to be a very good offense when everyone is healthy. And getting things going on the ground will open it up for the pass catchers and make everyone’s life a lot easier.
Raiders ‘mildly concerned’ with Geno Smith’s performance
There is no denying that quarterback Geno Smith has not been performing up to par for the Raiders and must get his turnovers in order. But despite his rough start to the season, the Raiders reportedly aren’t looking at benching him any time soon.
The post Ashton Jeanty: Raiders Offense Is Better When Establishing Run Game appeared first on Raiders Newswire.