Five takeaways from Raiders' 26-20 win over Vikings
The Las Vegas Raiders improved to 2-0 in the preseason, defeating the Kirk Cousins-less Minnesota Vikings 26-20. Here are five key takeaways from Sunday's game:
Fewer mistakes
NFL fans across the globe know that the Raiders -- in Oakland, Los Angeles, or Las Vegas -- have the reputation of being poorly disciplined. The team led the league in penalty yardage last season, accumulating 1,104 yards on 124 penalties.
On Sunday, the team had only four penalties. In two preseason games, Las Vegas has 10 penalties. During the same time frame, the team has zero turnovers. The two statistics speak volumes for the new regime, proving to fans that the Josh McDaniels era will consist of more control and discipline.
A season with less negative yardage than years past will do dividends for the team's success.
The usual offensive line
As usual, the Raiders' offensive line remains mysterious outside of left tackle Kolton Miller, who's a lock to start.
McDaniels raised some eyebrows Sunday afternoon, starting Thayer Munford at right tackle over the previous starter Alex Leatherwood. Munford answered the call, appearing to have retained his top spot on the depth chart.
Teammate Jermaine Eluemunor told reporters Sunday, "He’s come a long way. From back in the offseason where he was just trying to find his way to now where he’s out there doing his thing, it’s real dope to see," per Tashan Reed of The Athletic.
The rest of the O-line was mediocre. If anything, John Simpson and Lester Cotton seem to control their own destiny regarding their respective roles at left and right guard. Backup offensive lineman Dylan Parham's performance dropped off during Week 2 after a solid Week 1. However, the biggest question mark belongs to Leatherwood, who didn't play at all during the first half.
Chances are we might not know whom McDaniels will roll out versus the LA Chargers D-line in Week 1 of the regular season. Fans have to hope Week 3 of the preseason provides some clues.
DJ Turner is making it count
Las Vegas is deep at wide receiver and kick/punt returner. Davante Adams and Hunter Renfrow headline the pass catchers, while Darius Phillips and again Renfrow share the job of catching kicks. Left is DJ Turner, who displayed great speed and scoring ability in the contest against the Vikings.
Turner finished with three receptions for 58 yards, giving fans a highlight of a touchdown in the process. The 25-year-old helped his case to make the 53-man roster in Week 2.
Nick Mullens time
Quarterback Jarrett Stidham had another successful outing, completing 10-of-15 passes for 68 yards to go with his rushing score. He'll likely hold onto his backup role, considering he's played mistake-free football.
Veteran Nick Mullens played exceptionally during his time. The ex-49er completed 77 percent of his passes for 94 yards, adding a passing touchdown of his own. He likely saved his spot on the roster with his showing against Minnesota.
Undrafted rookie Chase Garbers completed only two passes for 19 yards. The former Cal Bear likely trails Mullens in the battle for QB3.
No Josh Jacobs action
It was a surprise to see Raiders star running back Josh Jacobs take part in the opening drives of the Hall of Fame Game. However, this wasn't the case at Allegiant Stadium. Jacobs didn't participate, leaving the door open for other members of the backfield to shine.
Zamir White had a quieter game compared to last, rushing for 13 yards on five carries. Kenyan Drake saw some action, averaging 3.8 yards per carry for a mere 15 yards. Having steady performances, Brittain Brown (14 carries for 54 yards and a touchdown) and Austin Walter (seven carries for 30 yards) earned some praise Sunday.
Las Vegas takes on the Miami Dolphins in Week 3 of the Raiders' preseason.
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