Some would argue that Oakland’s quarterback, Derek Carr, has already had his breakout season. In 2015, despite only really playing in 15 games, Carr managed to throw for 3,987 yards, 32 touchdowns, and only 13 interceptions. For perspective, Tom Brady, arguably the greatest quarterback of all-time, has only thrown for at least 32 touchdowns six times in his career, and he didn’t do it at all until he was 30 years old. Carr just turned 25, and in 2016, he’ll be even better.
Derek Carr Poised For Breakout Year
Development
First and foremost, Carr’s numbers are sure to improve because he’s had more time to develop. He’s had another season as the starting quarterback of the Raiders, and a full off-season to look at film. Historically speaking, the third season is frequently a breakout season for quarterbacks. In 2014, Andrew Luck’s third season, he went from 3,822 yards and 23 touchdowns to 4,761 yards and 40 touchdowns. Peyton Manning threw for 4,400 yards and 33 touchdowns in his third season, after only throwing 26 the year before. And the great Brett Favre went from 19 touchdowns and 24 interceptions in his second season as a starter to 33 touchdowns and 14 picks the next year.
An Easier Schedule
In 2015, Carr and the Raiders played half of their games against playoff teams, including the eventual Super Bowl Champion Denver Broncos. In 2016, the Raiders won’t play a team that made the playoffs last season until they host the Chiefs in Week 6. After that, the only playoff teams they’ll face outside of the AFC West will be the Carolina Panthers and the Houston Texans. The Panthers should still be a huge challenge for the Raiders, but Houston shouldn’t be too big of a problem, especially with Brock Osweiler under center. Against inferior talent, there’s no reason that Carr shouldn’t find more success.
Improved Roster
Despite only winning seven games in 2015, the Silver and Black gave the Raider Nation a lot to be optimistic about. From Khalil Mack’s breakout season to Amari Cooper’s seamless transition to the pro game, Raider fans have a lot to be excited about. During the offseason, the team got even better. The Raiders shored up an offensive line that was sixth in pass protection last season by signing Keleche Osemele, the best guard on the market.
The Raiders were second in time of possession last year, averaging only 29 minutes of possession per game. Fortunately, they invested a lot of money in the defense, adding players like Sean Smith and Bruce Irvin, so Carr should have more opportunities with the ball than ever. Michael Crabtree is back in 2016 after having one of the best years of his career, and Cooper has reportedly only gotten better. With a better defense and an improved offensive line, Carr doesn’t have much to complain about.
Increased Responsibility
Reportedly, Carr has been given more responsibility this season. The Raiders are going to give the young passer more control over the offense. Carr has had limited control over the offense in the past, being able to make small adjustments to plays, but now he’s really going to be able to open up the offense. This is a far cry from his rookie season, where Dennis Allen protected Carr with a very conservative offense.
It’s been a long time since Rich Gannon suited up for the Raiders in Super Bowl XXXVII, but it looks like the Silver and Black might finally have a franchise quarterback again. Carr has given the Raider Nation a lot to be excited about, and in 2016, he may finally begin his ascent into the ranks of the elite.
