The Oakland Raiders have momentum. The team got a nice win over the Baltimore Ravens in Week 2 and is looking to capitalize off the success shown with both the offense and defense. As the focus shifts to the Cleveland Browns and Josh McCown as the starter, the run game for the Raiders could be the biggest producer in Week 3 as they prepare to face one of the league's worst rushing defenses.
Fantasy owners invested in Latavius Murray waiting for the running back to breakout could be rewarded in Week 3. Murray has been quiet in the team's first two games, but that could change against Cleveland who has allowed teams to run up and down the field on them. According to Today's Pigskin, the Browns are 24th in fantasy points yielded to running backs this season. Chris Ivory has a big game against the team while Dexter McCluster put up 98 yards on them in Week 2 while Bishop Sankey added 42 more. Can Murray repeat the success?
Murray has been dominating the snap count for the Raiders while Taiwan Jones ranks over Roy Helu so far. While Murray has turned into a three-down back for the Raiders with 109 yards and a touchdown through two games, he wants the ball more each week.
"You never know when it will happen, but I would obviously love the ball in my hands more, as any offensive player would," Murray said, via CSN Bay Area's Scott Bair. "My main focus is being productive with the touches I'm given. I want to break some long ones and create some explosive plays. You're not going to have that every time, but you have to keep working on them."
For Raiders fans scratching their heads wondering where Helu has been in the first two games, the rusher is hoping he can begin to emerge as a real threat for the offense. So far Helu has been more of a third-down option for the team and he is not satisfied with that. Facing a weaker opponent in the Browns could be the game that Helu shows his worth. Fantasy owners would be wise not to take the risk in adding him just yet.
"I think most everybody's desire as a running back is to get involved in rhythm, because that's such a big part of the running back position," said Helu via the team website. "At the same time, the last couple of years I've been in the NFL I was designated that role, so whatever role I'm playing, and whatever that looks like, I'm just going to do my best at it."
Carr did a solid job of carving up the Ravens' defense last week, but it might be harder in Week 3. The Browns' have Joe Haden who has done a good job of keeping elite receivers quiet during the week. He will likely get placed on Amari Cooper which could open up Michael Crabtree to having another big game. However, expect Tashaun Gibson to give Carr some headaches on Sunday.
