One more win. That is all the Raiders need in order to make the playoffs for just the second time since 2002. But in order to get that win, they are going to have to use the Chargers in Week 18.
To do so, Derek Carr and the passing game is going to need to have a big day. One way to make sure that happens is to get the ball to Hunter Renfrow early and often.
In a recent article by ESPN’s Matt Bowen, he wrote about what the Raiders need to do to upset the Chargers in Week 18. Of course, that involves a ton of Renfrow on third down. Here is a snippet of his thoughts on this game and Renfrow’s potential usage against Los Angeles:
“When quarterback Derek Carr is faced with a third-and-medium situation, Renfrow will be a prime target. It’s not just one-on-one stuff, either.
Las Vegas will scheme for Renfrow, using Hi-Lo concepts versus zone coverage while working to get him free access off the ball against man. Expect bunch and stack sets there, with pre-snap movement to get him loose. Converting on third down wins football games, and how the Raiders deploy Renfrow there on Sunday night is key.”
Renfrow is the most reliable option in the passing game for several different reasons. Not only does he get open all the time, but he catches nearly everything thrown at him.
With the Chargers having one of the NFL’s worst run defenses, the Raiders would be wise to use Josh Jacobs a ton and then Renfrow in the passing game. A ball-control game plan for the Raiders is probably the best strategy to win this game if they can keep Justin Herbert off the field.
Renfrow needs just one more reception to reach 100 on the year, but look for him to catch close to double-digit passes in Week 18.
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