Murray will become a breakout star for the Raiders if they just give him the opportunity.
Drafted in the sixth round of the 2013 draft, Murray was a terrifying combination of size (6’3”, 230 lbs) and speed (ran a 4.38 40-yard dash at his pro day) as a runner for the University of Central Florida. In his career with the Golden Knights, Murray totaled 37 rushing touchdowns and was selected to the 2012 All-Conference USA First Team. On all 407 carries in his college career, he never lost a fumble, according to Jeff Legwold of The Denver Post.
But Murray’s game isn’t just about being big, fast and never losing a fumble.
Murray can contribute as a receiver and blocker as well. He caught 50 balls for 524 yards during his college career and was an effective lead blocker for quicker backs. All of his talents are on display in this video versus Marshall in 2012:
In this game, Murray filled up the stat sheet with 16 carries for 156 yards and three touchdowns, including a 75-yarder. Additionally, he had a receiving touchdown and made an excellent block at 5:06 in the video for the half back.
Whenever Marshall got early penetration, Murray couldn’t do much to get out of those situations. But whenever his offensive line got a good initial push, Murray was able to get up to full speed. A 230-pound back who runs a 4.38 40 is not easy to bring down, and he made that evident throughout the Marshall game.
However, that talent hasn’t immediately transferred over to the professional game.
Murray essentially had a redshirt rookie season. An ankle injury made him ...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Oakland Raiders
