The Oakland Raiders won a crucial division match-up against the San Diego Chargers last week to move into first place in the AFC West. Behind big performances by running back Michael Bush and wide receiver Denarius Moore, the Raiders overcame the absence of Darren McFadden and managed to muster up 24 points on the way to a seven-point victory.
Over half of Oakland's offensive production can be tied back to rookie Moore, who stepped up after Jacoby Ford left the game in the first quarter and proceed to record a monster game. In in only his ninth NFL game, Moore caught five passes for 123 receiving yards and two touchdowns.
Moore has been hot-and-cold this season, showing fans and spectators alike that he is capable of posting big numbers (receiving games of 123 and 146yards) while frustrating them with poor performances (receiving games of 4, 9 and 19 yards). Part of Moore's inconsistency thus far might stem from the unpredictable playing time of the Raiders receivers this year.
That, though, should not be a problem in the coming weeks. Darrius-Heyward Bay has not caught a ball in the last two games and Ford continues to deal with an injury. Given these circumstances, Moore has an incredible opportunity to solidify himself as Oakland's top receiver against the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday. An impressive follow-up performance to last week's huge game would mark a step in the right direction for Moore.