This is an interesting fantasy matchup and matchup in general. Both of these teams are coming off of victories where they carried the ball 50-plus times. There may not be a pass in this game. Let’s take a look at what Raiders are primed to put up some fantasy points.
QB Jason Campbell: Over the last five games the Jaguars run defense has been very stout. Their pass defense is still struggling. The Jaguars allow the highest opponent QB passer rating in the league. Still, unless the Raiders fall behind early, I don’t expect Campbell to get many pass attempts in this game.
Prognosis: Sit ’em
RB Darren McFadden: McFadden burst out of his two week slump last week with 121 total yards and one touchdown. The Raiders are going to get McFadden his touches one way or the other. The only risk in starting McFadden is that the Raiders tend to use Michael Bush for the short yardage carries, but McFadden still had a rushing touchdown last week and the Raiders like to throw to him near the endzone. Also, the Jaguars have struggled with open field tackling. If McFadden can get into space, he has a good shot of going the distance.
Prognosis: Start ’em
RB Michael Bush: Last week was the first week where the Raiders really utilized both backs in a game and Michael Bush actually ended up with more carries than McFadden. Bush is the favored guy in short yardage situations, which could lead to touchdown runs. The risk in Bush is if the Raiders fall behind, he will not get his touches.
Prognosis: Sit ’em
Oakland WRs: The Oakland wide outs combined for three catches last week. Getting the ball to his wide receivers has never been Jason Campbell’s strength. They have the opportunity to pop for a big play against the Jaguars weak secondary, but Oakland’s run first mentality makes them too risky.
Prognosis: Sit ’em
TE Zach Miller: Zach Miller is a shell of his former fantasy self. He has been slowed by his plantar fascia. This is not the type of injury that is likely going to go away during the season. While he says he is getting better, he is going to have to show some production before he is worth starting.
Prognosis: Sit ‘em
Oakland Defense: The Jaguars lead have surrendered the 21st most sacks in the league. The Raiders’ Defense leads the league in sacks. If the Raiders can force the Jaguars into passing situations, good things will happen for them. Not only will they get some sacks, but they may also force the interception prone David Garrard into turnovers.
Prognosis: Start ’em