Seven games into the 2016 NFL schedule, the Oakland Raiders have a perfect 4-0 record on the road. Head coach Jack Del Rio and his roster have steadily executed their game plans this season, amounting to some high quality victories on the road.
While the defense hasn’t been ideal this season, the unit has come up big in crucial moments of the game, getting stops when they matter or collecting a turnover towards the end of the contest.
Unfortunately for Del Rio, it was announced on Friday that one key figure on the defensive line won’t be suiting up on Sunday. In a matchup against a potentially electric Tampa Bay Buccaneers offense, the Raiders will be playing without Stacy McGee, via Scott Blair of CSN California:
Stacy McGee has been ruled out of Sunday's game at Tampa. Everybody else (Menelik, Vadal, Taiwan, etc) is questionable…
— Scott Bair (@BairCSN) October 28, 2016
McGee has 2.5 sacks this season, which ranks second on the Raiders behind Pro Bowler Khalil Mack. The defensive tackle did not participate in practice all week, but was seen doing individual work on the side.
Del Rio stated after Friday’s practice that McGee could potentially play in Week 9, but his presence will definitely be missed during Week 8.
For the 2016 season, McGee has 2.5 sacks, 11 tackles and three assisted tackles. His play along the defensive line has helped ease the pressure off of Mack and Bruce Irvin.
It was also announced that running back Doug Martin won’t be suiting up for the Buccaneers, but the team also has back up Jacquizz Rodgers, who can do damage on both the rushing and receiving end.
The Raiders prepare for their Week 8 matchup at Raymond James Stadium, their second consecutive week in Florida. The contest is slated for a 10:00 A.M. PST start time and will be featured on CBS.
