The Raiders came into Miami and were doomed by the ground game on Sunday, both offensively and defensively. The Raiders surrendered 263 rushing yards, gaining only 23 of their own despite having one of the most dynamic running backs in the NFL.
The running game was far from Oakland’s only problem, but it was certainly the most glaring issue. Darren McFadden had just 13 total touches and Carson Palmer had to throw the ball 48 times. The Dolphins gave Reggie Bush 29 touches and he produced 197 yards and two touchdowns.
This marks the second straight game the team hasn’t been able to get McFadden going. There is now a legitimate concern that there is something broken offensively. McFadden has now attempted just 26 runs for 54 yards and a 2.1 yards per carry average through two games. By comparison, McFadden had 42 carries for 222 yards and a 5.3 average through two games in 2011.
Many will blame the return of the zone-blocking scheme and offensive coordinator Greg Knapp for McFadden’s struggles. McFadden wasn’t as productive in the zone-blocking scheme as he was in Hue Jackson’s man-blocking scheme.
There’s certainly some culpability on the coaching staff for not sticking with the running game, but it’s tough when the offensive line isn’t opening holes and the defense can’t keep the opposition out of the end zone.
Oakland’s defense had a solid game in Week 1, so the poor showing against the Dolphins calls into question how much the defense has improved or if it’s improved at all. The Dolphins averaged 6.1 yards p...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Oakland Raiders
