Raiders pass protection key for Carr

Jared Dubin preview’s the Chargers-Raiders game, including the importance of how the Raiders protecting Derek Carr:

“Some of the downturn has to be attributable to the fact that Carr has been under pressure more often. He's never been all that adept at dealing with rushers in his face, and this season has been no different. According to Pro Football Focus and Tru Media, Vegas' pressure rate has spiked from 30 percent to 35 percent over the past three weeks, as Carr's performance (and the offense's overall) have taken a step backwards. On the season, Carr has a 64.9 passer rating under pressure, throwing just three touchdowns against four interceptions. His rating has jumped more than 50 points, to 115.1, when throwing from a clean pocket. 

So the key in this game, then, will be keeping him well protected. The Chargers have pressured opponents on 36 percent of dropbacks, per PFF and TruMedia, a rate just south of the 37 percent league average. But Joey Bosa and Melvin Ingram are extremely capable, and have proven their ability to take over games on occasion. It'll be important for the Raiders' offensive line to make sure those guys don't get too many one-on-one opportunities, and to have Carr get the ball out quickly when they're singled up on the edge.“

Full article: CBS Sports