Darren McFadden might have been a giant fantasy disappointment against the Denver Broncos, but owners should expect the total opposite when the Raiders face the Washington Redskins on Sunday. McFadden has the chance to carry fantasy teams in Week 4 against a defense that has not fared well against the run, or pass for that matter. In need a breakout performance, this could be McFadden's week.
Against the Denver Bronco's tough defense, McFadden only managed 12 yards on nine carries. Rough. He did throw a touchdown pass, but that was generally overlooked. The running back is showing potential to be great so far in 2013. In Week 2, the back put up 129 yards on 19 carries. In a crucial year, McFadden will always be pushing the limit and Week 4 could be where it starts to pay off.
In the first two weeks of the season, the Redskins defense allowed an average of 201 yards per game on the ground. They improved in Week 3, holding the Lions to just 63 yards, but that was without starter Reggie Bush. As of now, the Raiders own the third-best rushing attack in the NFL with Pryor able to add to the total yardage on the ground. There is urgency with the Redskins starting 0-3, but the Raiders might be able to hold their ground against a weak defensive front.
At this point, all signs are pointing to Terrelle Pryor not playing in the game. After getting knocked out by a concussion, Pryor has been cleared to play, but many believe Matt Flynn will get the start against the Redskins. This could change up the offensive scheme and place more pressure on McFadden, but he is guaranteed to get plenty of touches. Sunday will be Flynn's first start and he will likely rely heavily on McFadden to take some of the pressure off him.
Many believe that Pryor in at quarterback has hurt the overall production of McFadden. He is no longer relied heavily upon as the leader of the run game. With the dynamic abilities of the quarterback to run, pass or pass on the run, McFadden is left many times as a blocker. With Flynn starting under center, the blue print for success in Week 4 has been written.
