Despite posting a disappointing 1-3 record in September, the Oakland Raiders remain fully optimistic in turning their 2018 NFL season around. While the team has struggled to close out games, the offense has been a bright spot in the early going.
The Raiders entered October second in yards per game (441.8), trailing only the undefeated Los Angeles Rams in that category (468.5). Moreover, Oakland places fourth in passing yards per game (333) and 16th in rushing yards (108.8).
Leading the run game is Marshawn Lynch, who continues to age gracefully. Heading into Week 5, he ranks fourth among all NFL running backs with 300 rushing yards.
Ahead of their upcoming matchup with the Los Angeles Chargers, Lynch was initially listed on the team’s injury report with an abdomen issue. He has since been removed, paving the way for another heavy workload on Sunday.
Raiders head coach Jon Gruden revealed that he does not plan to limit Lynch’s snaps going forward, as long as he is up for the task, according to Michael Gehlken of the Las Vegas Review-Journal:
Jon Gruden on possibility of limiting RB Marshawn Lynch’s workload, given the physical manner at which he runs: “He’s been durable his career. We’ll just keep feeding him Skittles and keep sending him out there as long as he can.” Lynch (abdomen) removed from injury report today.
— Michael Gehlken (@GehlkenNFL) October 5, 2018
That Lynch should be healthy for Sunday’s bout with the Chargers is certainly a positive development. Los Angeles, without the services of edge rusher Joey Bosa, has still thrived with defending the run, placing eighth in yielding 124.8 rushing yards per game.
In addition to his 300 rushing yards on 68 attempts through four games, Lynch has found the end zone three times. He also has 10 receptions thus far — already halfway to his total from last season — for 60 receiving yards.
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