Raiders' Running Game Faces Scrutiny, But Past Success Offers Hope

The Las Vegas Raiders' ground game is averaging a modest 3.1 yards per carry and 93 yards per game through four weeks, a performance that drew further frustration in their recent 30-27 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs. The team managed just 72 yards on 26 carries against the Chiefs, an average of 2.8 yards per attempt.

However, a review of offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak's past work suggests reason for patience. In his previous role with the Seattle Seahawks, the offense experienced similar early-season struggles. Through their first eight games last season, Seattle averaged only 3.7 yards per carry and fell short of 100 rushing yards four times. Over their final 12 games, including the Super Bowl, the Seahawks achieved over 100 rushing yards in 10 contests, boosting their season average to 4.1 yards per carry in the regular season and 4.2 including the playoffs.

The improvement in Seattle, which saw Kenneth Walker III emerge as a key contributor, offers a historical parallel for the Raiders' current situation. Kubiak and his staff, including offensive coordinator Andrew Janocko and offensive line coach Rick Dennison, are essentially facing a similar challenge: implementing a new offense while an offensive line adjusts to the system.

Another factor potentially impacting the Raiders' run game is the health of running back Ashton Jeanty. Jeanty has been dealing with an ankle injury, which he suggested is still affecting his performance. "I’m going to continue to keep getting better and stronger. It’s getting stronger, and I feel like I’m going to be 100 percent real soon," Jeanty said. While he believes opportunities are available, he acknowledges the need to break more tackles and make bigger plays, indicating he is not yet at full strength.

Kubiak has taken responsibility for the run game's struggles, stating, "I put it on myself. I got to do a lot better job of putting us in better position." He emphasized the need to "scheme them up better," a sentiment that aligns with the lessons learned from the Seahawks' turnaround.

The Raiders' offensive line also needs to generate more consistent movement, with tight ends and wide receivers expected to sustain blocks. The potential return of right guard Jackson Powers-Johnson, who missed the Chiefs game with a groin injury, could provide a boost. Kubiak confirmed Powers-Johnson is expected to practice and play this week.

The team's 3-1 record provides a foundation for optimism. A more dependable running game could significantly benefit quarterback Kirk Cousins and tight end Brock Bowers, leading to more manageable down-and-distance situations, improved red-zone efficiency, and better clock management when protecting a lead.

While Seattle's past success does not guarantee future results for the Raiders, Kubiak's history and Jeanty's self-reported progress offer grounds to believe the team's rushing attack can improve.