Roberts ‘came up huge' in Raiders victory over Tennessee

Share

NASHVILLE, Tenn. -– Raiders slot receiver Seth Roberts is from Moultrie, Ga. and grew up in Tallahassee, Fla. and Sunday’s game at the Tennessee Titans brought him as close to family as he’ll get all season. His loved ones took advantage, and made the trek to see him play.

They picked a good game to attend. Roberts had the game of his life. He set career highs and scored the deciding touchdown in a 24-21 victory over the Titans at Nissan Stadium.

“It’s an awesome feeling, especially with my family in the stands,” Roberts said. “I just want to thank the guys for believing in me.”

[BAIR: Instant Replay: Raiders strike late to beat Titans, end skid]

His 12-yard touchdown with 87 seconds remaining produced the final margin of victory and was the finest moment in an excellent effort. He had seven catches for 113 yards and two touchdowns.

After the win, head coach Jack Del Rio gave him a game ball to commemorate an effort vital to victory.

“I thought he came up huge for us with the way he performed,” Del Rio said. “He took shot there and still scored, and then he got another touchdown on a nice route there at the end. It was a great all-around performance by Seth.”

His first touchdown was particularly impressive, as he maintained balance after taking a huge hit and dove into the end zone.

This isn’t Roberts’ first day in the spotlight. He had two touchdowns before this, including the game winner against the Baltimore Ravens.

Those moments illustrate the rapid rise of an undrafted player from a small school. The West Alabama alum spent last year on the practice squad, and worked his way into a prominent role in an explosive offense.

“This is a guy who was undrafted and had to work his tail off to make the practice squad last year,” quarterback Derek Carr said. “Then he had to work to make the 53-man roster this year and again to make start for us in the slot. Now he’s making game-winning catches. I think Disney should write a movie about him someday.”

Roberts was a feature player due to Tennessee’s coverage scheme. There were openings in the middle that made Roberts attractive, and the 24-year old took advantage of his opportunities.

“They gave us some looks to get him the ball, but we like going to him no matter what,” Carr said. “He’s so quick in the slot, and he adjusts routes so well. On a lot of balls throwing down the middle, if he doesn’t make a play, the pass hits the safety in the chest and people are booing me.

“You have to give him so much credit. Playing the slot is not easy, but he finds a way to stay productive.”

Contact Us