Despite the loss to the Chicago Bears in Week 4, the Oakland Raiders continue to show progress on both offense and defense. Already looking better at this point in the season than they did last year, the Raiders are capitalizing off the improved performance of several players. Michael Crabtree is on that list, but an ankle injury could leave him questionable for Week 5.
Crabtree suffered an ankle injury in the loss to the Chicago Bears according to ProFootballTalk.com. He fell while trying to grab a catch in the first quarter and landed on the field clutching his ankle in pain. The receiver was able to return, but was clearly limited for the remainder of the game. While the ankle issue is not expected to be serious, Crabtree could get a little extra rest this week which might allow other players to step up for quarterback Derek Carr.
The good news for the Raiders is the depth of their offense is showing. Amari Cooper continues to thrive for Carr, getting one of the lone touchdowns for the team. Lee Smith is on the rise as a tight end options while Marcel Reece is making an impact in the receiving game. ESPN.com reports that Crabtree should be fine for the upcoming week, but the Raiders have the pieces on the chance he is not.
The biggest miscue for the Raiders was Latavius Murray who was pulled for the final drive of the game following two costly turnovers. Murray has been one of the league's emerging stars, but his mistakes led to Roy Helu getting playing time and a touchdown to his name. The running back took advantage of his time on the field and could see more playing time in the near future. Carr was quick to defend Murray in the loss, aware of how important the running back has been for the team.
"This is the ultimate team game," Carr said, via the San Jose Mercury News. "Those turnovers could've happened and they could miss the kick and we win. Not one person can ever just take the blame. I appreciate him trying to stand up and do that-it takes a lot for someone to try to do that."
The Raiders need a quick turnaround as they prepare to play the Denver Broncos who come in with one of the league's best defensive units. The turnovers simply cannot happen from Murray who told the media that he plans to quickly move on from his mistakes. Crabtree will be needed in the matchup. If the ankle injury lingers, players like Andre Holmes and Rod Streater along with Seth Roberts will have to step up after none of them made an impact in Week 4.