https://www.on3.com/pro/news/raiders-running-back-josh-jacobs-ruled-out-for-thursday-night-football-vs-chargers-with-quad-injury/
In a crucial Thursday night matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers, the Las Vegas Raiders will be without star running back Josh Jacobs, who is sidelined due to a quad injury sustained during the previous game against the Minnesota Vikings. The absence of Jacobs is expected to be a significant setback for the Raiders, as he has been a key contributor to their offense.
NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reports that rookie Zamir White is set to step into the starting role at running back for the Raiders in Jacobs’ absence. White, a fourth-round pick out of Georgia last season, is poised to make his first career NFL regular-season start.
Despite limited regular-season action, there is optimism surrounding White’s potential impact. During his rookie season, White showed promise in the preseason, rushing for two touchdowns and accumulating 86 yards on 26 carries. In 13 games this season, he has rushed for 54 yards on 20 carries and caught six receptions for 38 yards.
The Raiders, currently standing at 5-8, are in a must-win situation against the Chargers, who share the same record. With both teams technically still in the AFC playoff race, the loser of this critical matchup will face almost certain elimination from playoff contention.
While the Raiders will be without Jacobs, there is positive news regarding wide receiver Davante Adams and defensive end Maxx Crosby. Both players, listed as questionable for the game, are expected to play, providing a boost to the Raiders’ offense and defense.
This game holds particular significance for the Raiders, who have faced challenges throughout the season, including the midseason coaching change that saw the departure of head coach Josh McDaniels and the quarterback transition from Jimmy Garoppolo to rookie Aidan O’Connell.
Interim head coach Antonio Pierce will be tasked with guiding the team through this pivotal game, hoping that White can step up in Jacobs’ absence and contribute to a much-needed victory for the Raiders. As the AFC playoff race tightens, the outcome of this matchup will play a crucial role in determining the postseason fate of both teams.