Josh Jacobs was on the wrong side of history in Week 2
Las Vegas Raiders running back Josh Jacobs had a big season in 2022, proving he can be among the best running backs in the NFL. Going into 2023, Jacobs is considered a key piece to the offense in Las Vegas but so far it’s been a slow start.
After rushing for 48 yards on 19 carries in the Week 1 win over Denver, Jacobs struggled in Week 2. Jacobs rushed for negative two yards on 9 carries in the loss to Buffalo on Sunday. With that, he made some history as well.
Per ML Football, he became the first defending NFL rushing champion to finish a game with negative rushing yards since 1970. That’s not good.
HISTORIC: Las Vegas #Raiders running back Josh Jacobs made #NFL history today rushing for NEGATIVE 2 yards on 9 carries becoming the first defending #NFL rushing champion to finish a game with less rushing yards since the league's merger in 1970.
Buffalo’s run defense… pic.twitter.com/JjdQYTUVM5
— MLFootball (@_MLFootball) September 18, 2023
Josh Jacobs struggles so far
The Raiders and Josh Jacobs had a bit of a bumpy offseason in 2022. He wanted a long-term deal and to be paid what he believed was fair. However, the Raiders didn’t want to give him that deal. The two did agree on a one-year deal over $10M for this season but so far, Jacobs hasn’t produced.
So what gives?
Jacobs doesn’t look like the same running back we saw tearing it up last season. Sure, the offensive line could play better but Jacobs could also play better as well. We also have to keep in mind that he did go up against two of the better defenses in the NFL and Buffalo completely made the Raiders one-dimensional in this game.
There’s still 15 games to go and time for him to turn it around. Let’s hope he can do that.
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