Receivers' drops kill Raiders offense's momentum in 34-3 loss to Jets

Share

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. -- The Raiders faced an early third down with 13 yards to go Sunday against the Jets, and the offensive line gave Derek Carr plenty of time to work the ball downfield.

The Raiders quarterback saw Tyrell Williams come free across the middle, well beyond the sticks with room to run after the catch. Carr delivered his pass accurately and on time, but it clanged off Williams’ hands just the same.

Fourth down. The Raiders had to punt.

“I just had my eye up the field a little too quickly," Williams said after the Raiders' 34-3 loss at MetLife Stadium.

That proved a golden opportunity missed and one of several quality passes that hit the turf.

Hunter Renfrow dropped an easy third-down reception on the game’s opening drive, though a first down would’ve been tough to get. Jalen Richard messed up a second-down pass that took the Raiders off schedule and contributed to a three-and-out.

“I know football well enough to know that those lead to the onslaught that we kind of got,” Renfrow said. “If we make those catches early, we could’ve kept it rolling.”

The Raiders had three obvious drops and a number of other plays left unmade by receivers. Tight end Derek Carrier couldn’t corral a deep pass down the sideline, going up with just one hand to try to make the grab. Williams couldn't muscle down a deep shot from Mike Glennon, leaving it unsecured long enough for the Jets to defend the pass.

[RELATED: Controversial Hurst penalty gave Raiders 'sinking feeling']

The Raiders' offense needed more and better from their skill players in the passing game. Drops and an inability to make contested catches cost Oakland dearly.

Players and coaches refused to use inclement weather as an excuse, taking full responsibility for a lack of play-making ability.

“When you get those opportunities, you have to take advantage,” Williams said. “It’s going to be tough no matter who you’re playing on the road, so you have to [capitalize].”

Contact Us