Through seven weeks, the Oakland Raiders sit at 3-4 and are only a few games back of a wildcard spot in the AFC. And with a much easier schedule coming up for the Raiders, the playoffs should still be in their sights.
But for Oakland to make a run, they are going to need better performances from a few key players over the next two months. Today, we are looking at three Raiders who should improve over the second half of the 2019 season.
1. DE Clelin Ferrell
It’s been a rocky start to the career for No. 4 pick Clelin Ferrell. Despite starting six games, Ferrell has recorded just two quarterback hits and one sack while fellow rookies Nick Bosa, Josh Allen, and Brian Burns have all been fantastic.
But with a more manageable schedule coming up, don’t be surprised if Ferrell’s production increases. While the sacks haven’t come yet, he has made some plays knocking down passes, getting in passing lanes, etc. Ferrell should see a bunch of snaps in the team’s final nine games and look for him to capitalize on those snaps.
2. LT Kolton Miller
In the 2018 draft, the Raiders passed on the likes of Derwin James, Leighton Vander Esch, Jaire Alexander and Calvin Ridley in favor of tackle Kolton Miller. After his rookie season, that pick looked like a bust after Miller gave up several sacks and struggled with penalties.
However, we’ve already seen a pretty significant jump in play from Miller, who has improved his Pro Football Focus grade from 48.2 in 2018 to 62.9. Miller is playing like an average starting tackle, but the flashes of brilliance are there.
As long as he can stay healthy, look for the former UCLA tackle to continue to improve. Miller is far from a perfect player, but his play is increasing by the week. Expect to see a much different player by the end of the 2019 season.
3. QB Derek Carr
Despite an excellent start to the 2019 season, there are some significant improvements that could still happen in Derek Carr’s game. With the help of a healthier offensive line and receiving corps, Carr’s numbers should continue to rise. He’s clearly becoming more comfortable in Jon Gruden’s offense, and each week only solidifies that.
Assuming the rest of the offense can stay healthy, look for Carr to make a leap in the second half of the season as the schedule gets easier, and the Raiders are at home more often.
