The buzz surrounding the Las Vegas Raiders entering this week’s game was going to be their run defense. In particular, whether they could stop, or even slow down, Derrick Henry was on everyone’s mind. Well, it’s not going well so far.
come in today’s game, the Raiders had the 16th ranked defense in rushing yards allowed (219). All in all, it could have been worse before the Titans game. Obviously, the Raiders had yet to face a running back of Henry’s caliber, so this ranking was definitely going to be tested.
Raiders News: How are the Raiders faring against Derrick Henry?
Henry had gotten off to a slow start this year, especially against the Buffalo Bills, where he was limited to 25 rushing yards. Today, against Las Vegas, Henry has already accumulated 64 yards on the ground. This is based on 11 carries for an average of 5.8 yards per attempt. He also broke up a fine 24-yard run in the first quarter before being stopped by Johnathan Abram.
Henry also makes his presence known in the air in the passing game. Titans quarterback Ryan Tannehill has targeted Henry three times so far. With the No. 22, he took him down three times for a total of 42 yards, making a big 23-yard reception in his own right. Overall, it’s been lousy for the Raiders’ defense. There is no other way to say it. For the Raiders to get back into it, Patrick Graham’s defense will have to tighten the screw. You can’t do much against Henry. If your tackle isn’t perfect, he’ll make you pay. Right now, Raiders fans are wondering what all the hype surrounding Graham’s defense this offseason is. It’s an understandable frustration from a fanbase who have been disappointed with their team’s performance so far. let’s see what happens in the second half.
*Top photo: Christopher Hanewinckel – USA TODAY Sports
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