Jimmy Garoppolo was back on the field this week and will be the Raiders starting signal-caller against the Packers in the Monday Night Football game at Allegiant Stadium. He told the media this week that after the Steelers game, a Raiders loss, the doctors grabbed him and the next thing he knew he was in concussion protocol. As a result Garoppolo missed last week's game against the Chargers in L.A. Rookie Aidan O'Connell started and was sacked seven times, six by former Raider Kahlil Mack. O'Connell had three turnovers, including an interception at the Chargers two yard-line late in the game.
Through his first three starts, Garoppolo completed more than 68% of his passes. He had thrown five touchdowns by threw six interceptions. Raiders QB's have nine totals in four games. They will have to clean up that part of their game against the Packers Monday.
Former Packers great, Davante Adams, missed Raiders practice this entire week as he is works through a shoulder injury. He is also expected to play Monday night. Adams said this week that he has nothing but love and respect for the Green Bay organization. Adams has been frustrated through most of the early part of the season. Garoppolo will continue to target Adams, who has 33 catches for 397 yards and three touchdowns this season. The Raiders offensive line needs to keep the pocket clean for Garoppolo to deliver the ball to Adams and spread the ball to other receivers.
Garoppolo has won three of four meetings, including twice in the playoffs, against the Pack.
To open the passing attack, the Raiders have to get Josh Jacobs to rush the ball better. Jacobs seems close to breaking out of his early season slump. He has just 108 yards on the ground on 45 carries. Jacobs was a holdout during the Summer and arrived in camp late, as he looked for a new contract. So far, the holdout has hurt last year's NFL rushing leader. Jacobs has, however, added a new dimension to his game. He hauled in eight passes for 81 yards against the Chargers on the road last week.
Meanwhile, the Silver and Black will hope to keep the ball away from the Green Bay offense. Jordan Love, who replaced legendary QB Aaron Rodgers this season, has thrown eight touchdowns. The Raiders secondary will be tested early and often. The Packers have a lot of weapons and, already have had a lot of explosive plays. Raiders head coach Josh McDaniels is concerned about the Packers stretching the field. He said the Raiders have to make sure they stay off the Green Bay receivers and not commit penalties, especially defensive pass interference calls. The Raiders are going to have to find a way to put pressure on Love. Only Maxx Crosby has been able to provide a pass rush this season. Love was pressured 12 times by the Lions last week and hit a number of times.
The Raiders need to have a sense of urgency. Monday's game against the Packers is a pivotal one as they have back-to-back home games for the first time this season vs two winnable opponents - the Packers and Patriots.