Kenyan Drake Expected to Seamlessly Replace Josh Jacobs

The Las Vegas Raiders picked up a big win against the Baltimore Ravens on the first Monday Night Football game of 2021, but lost running back Josh Jacobs for Week 2 in the process; Jacobs is currently dealing with toe and ankle injuries.

As one former Alabama running back limps off the field, another Alabama running back hustles on: Kenyan Drake.

Jacobs clearly had a hitch in his giddy-up in Week 1, occasionally lumbering off the field. Jacobs would still pick up two touchdowns on the day, but averaged just 3.4 yards per carry.

Even with Jacobs “healthy” and active, he and Drake split touches at 11 touches a piece. Drake hauled in five catches out of the backfield; his five catches were the third most for Las Vegas in Week 1 behind tight end Darren Waller (10), and wide receiver Hunter Renfrow (6).

If you take away the two rushing touchdowns, Jacobs had a forgettable night with just 34 rushing yards. Now that Drake is listed as the starter for Week 2, he is expected to fill the role without a hiccup.

WynnBET Sportsbook has listed Drake’s rushing yards total for Week 2 against the Pittsburgh Steelers at 46.5 rushing yards, the over slightly favored at -116 to the under at -112. Drake’s rushing and receiving yards combined has been set at 70.5 total yards, with the over still favored at -116 to the under at -112.

This week, the Raiders line up against a Steelers’ defense that allowed 117 rushing yards in Week 1 to the Buffalo Bills, with running back Devin Singletary leading the way with 74 rushing yards. The Pittsburgh defense is solid but there may be some space for Drake to make some plays, potentially being the focal point for Jon Gruden’s offense.

With the ability to pick up yards on the ground and catch passes out of the backfield, Drake may be able to give Las Vegas a different look on offense, and it may be exactly what the Raiders are looking for. 

Will Kenyan Drake surpass his yards totals? Make your pick at WynnBET.