Why Did Ashton Jeanty Struggle Again in Raiders' Latest Loss?

In a challenging outing against the Commanders, rookie running back Jeanty recorded 17 carries for 63 rushing yards. Although this performance marked his best rushing total to date, it was overshadowed by a lack of targets in the passing game, where he failed to see a single target for the first time in his short career. Given his struggles with six targets in the first two games, it's not surprising to see his role in the passing game diminish. Looking ahead, Jeanty may have a chance to shine in Week 4 against the Bears, whose defence has struggled significantly this season.

Last updated: 21 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways from Jeanty's Performance

• Jeanty rushed for 63 yards, his best performance so far.
• He did not receive any targets against the Commanders.
• This was his first game without a target in his career.
• Jeanty's role in the passing game has been reduced.
• He faces a weak Bears defence in the upcoming game.

Jeanty’s Performance Breakdown

Jeanty’s performance in the recent game reflects the struggles of a rookie adapting to the NFL. Despite being the sixth overall pick in the 2025 Draft, he has yet to fully capitalise on his potential. His 63 rushing yards are a positive sign, but they also highlight a need for improvement in his overall game.

Rushing Performance

With 17 carries, Jeanty demonstrated his ability to handle a significant workload. The 63 rushing yards suggest he is beginning to find his rhythm on the ground, but this is still far from a standout performance. The Commanders’ defence, while not the toughest in the league, managed to limit his effectiveness, which raises questions about his ability to break tackles and gain additional yards.

Passing Game Struggles

One of the most notable aspects of Jeanty’s game against the Commanders was his complete lack of targets. This was the first time in his brief career that he did not receive a single target, which is a stark contrast to his earlier games where he had at least six targets. This reduction could suggest a shift in game strategy or a lack of confidence from the coaching staff in his ability to contribute in the passing game.

What’s Next for Jeanty?

Looking forward to Week 4, Jeanty faces the Chicago Bears, who have been one of the weakest defensive units in the NFL this season. This matchup presents an opportunity for him to bounce back and potentially have a breakout game. The Bears' defence has struggled against the run, which could allow Jeanty to exploit gaps and make significant yardage gains.

Factors Influencing Future Performance

Several factors could influence Jeanty’s performance in the upcoming game:

• Defensive Matchup: The Bears' defence has shown vulnerability, particularly in stopping the run.
• Coaching Decisions: How the coaching staff decides to utilise Jeanty in both the rushing and passing games will impact his effectiveness.
• Team Dynamics: The overall performance of the team and how well they can execute their game plan will also play a role.

The Importance of Adaptation

As a rookie, Jeanty must adapt to the speed and physicality of the NFL. His ability to learn from these early setbacks will be crucial for his development. Focusing on improving his pass-catching skills and becoming a more reliable option in the passing game could significantly enhance his value to the team.

Learning from Previous Games

In his first two games, Jeanty had six targets but struggled to make an impact. Analyzing these performances could provide him with insights into what he needs to improve. Whether it’s refining his route running or improving his ability to catch the ball in traffic, Jeanty has the potential to become a dual-threat running back if he can develop these skills.

Conclusion

Jeanty's journey as a rookie running back is just beginning, and while his performance against the Commanders was a mixed bag, the upcoming game against the Bears could be a turning point. With the right adjustments and a favourable matchup, he has the opportunity to showcase his skills and solidify his role in the team.

Will Jeanty take advantage of this opportunity, or will he continue to struggle? Only time will tell. As the season progresses, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how he evolves in his rookie year. #NFL #Jeanty #RookieRunningBack

FAQs

What are Jeanty's strengths as a running back?

Jeanty has shown a strong ability to carry the ball effectively, as evidenced by his best rushing performance of 63 yards. His agility and speed can make him a threat on the ground.

Why did Jeanty not receive any targets in the last game?

Jeanty’s lack of targets could be attributed to a combination of coaching strategy and his previous struggles in the passing game, where he had not made significant impacts with his targets.

How does the Bears' defence compare to the Commanders' defence?

The Bears' defence has been one of the worst in the NFL this season, particularly against the run, making it a potentially favourable matchup for Jeanty compared to the Commanders.

What improvements does Jeanty need to make?

Jeanty should focus on enhancing his pass-catching abilities and learning to navigate defensive coverages to become a more versatile threat in both the rushing and passing games.

What can we expect from Jeanty in future games?

If he can address his passing game deficiencies and leverage his rushing strengths, Jeanty has the potential to become a key player for his team in upcoming games.