For the past three games, running back Marshawn Lynch has been extremely productive for the Raiders as they make a desperate push to reach the playoffs.
And, judging by how the Giants defense has performed this season, Lynch could have another big day this Sunday.
The Giants have the second-worst rush defense in the NFL, allowing an average of 131.7 yards per game.
Lynch, meanwhile, is coming off a big game in a win over the Denver Broncos. He carried a season-high 26 times for 67 yards and a touchdown while also catching three passes for 44 yards to give him a season-best 111 yards from scrimmage. In his previous two games, Lynch had 57 yards rushing and six yards receiving while scoring two touchdowns in a win over Miami and 67 yards rushing – at over 6 yards per carry – and 10 yards receiving in a loss to New England.
Though his yards-per-carry average is just 3.7 yards in his first season as a Raider at age 31, he’s had some of his strongest games over the past three weeks, running hard, breaking tackles and making plays. Over that span he has 191 yards rushing on 51 carries for three TDs.
“See, what people don’t know, they think Shawn is washed,” said Raiders wideout Seth Roberts this week. “Shawn isn’t washed up. Shawn comes in here every day with his mind right and ready to ball, and that’s what he did (against Denver).”
Quarterback Derek Carr says Lynch is giving the Raiders what they need against tough defenses.
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“He’s been able to hit some holes and get the tough yards – plays that are three yards, turned into seven," he said. "Plays that should be losses he’s turning into two-yard gains.”
Lynch should get plenty of opportunities this Sunday, when the 5-6 Raiders will host the 2-9 Giants at the Oakland Coliseum. Kickoff is set for 1:25 p.m.
