Sports
Las Vegas Raiders Face Running Back Crisis Ahead of Denver Clash
The Las Vegas Raiders are grappling with multiple injuries to their running back corps ahead of their match against the Denver Broncos. The team, currently experiencing a challenging season with a 2-8 record, is seeking to break a six-game losing streak.
Head coach Antonio Pierce announced during his Friday media availability that both Alexander Mattison and Zamir White are doubtful for the upcoming game due to injuries. Mattison is dealing with an ankle issue, while White is suffering from a quad injury. Combined, the two players have contributed 503 yards and four touchdowns this season over 162 carries. «Yeah, so two running backs won’t practice and neither will Jack Jones today. So, next man up mentality,» Pierce said.
Ameer Abdullah is set to lead the Raiders’ backfield in their absence, with Pierce hinting at increased roles for other players. Ameer Abdullah, a veteran running back, has logged 82 yards on 17 carries this season and scored a touchdown. Rookie Dylan Laube is also expected to back up Abdullah. There is potential excitement amongst fans as they anticipate seeing more of Laube, a sixth-round draft pick from New Hampshire. «We’ll definitely ramp up everybody else,» Pierce stated regarding the adjustments in their game plan.
Another layer of uncertainty surrounds the Raiders’ defense, as cornerbacks Jakorian Bennett and Nate Hobbs have been ruled out of the upcoming game with injuries. Meanwhile, fellow cornerback Jack Jones, who has a back issue, and center Andre James are both expected to return to practice, although their participation in Sunday’s game remains undetermined. Sam Webb and Decamerion Richardson are among those who can step in for the injured cornerbacks.
The Raiders are set to host the Denver Broncos at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas on Sunday. The last encounter between the two teams this season ended in a 34-18 victory for the Broncos. The Raiders will need to leverage their available roster effectively to overturn the result this time around.