THE RISE OF RASHAD JENNINGS

Rashad Jennings

By Scary Barry Rodriguez          November 10, 2013



Lately the NFL and professional football have been getting a black eye in the wake of the numerous stories concerning the hazing and harassment situation surrounding the Miami Dolphins . The recent play of the Oakland Raiders  running back Rashad Jennings, playing in place of the injury prone Darren McFadden is a feel good story in contrast to all those bad vibes in the NFL.

Darren McFadden

 The Oakland Raider's 2013 season is part of a rebuilding process with the attendant growing pains. One of the few bright spots to emerge from the temporary disappointments is Rashad Jennings. Last Sunday in a blowout loss to the Philadelphia Eagles, Jennings showed his value and versatility . He rushed for 102 yards on 15 carries , caught 7 passes for 74 yards and also played on special teams. It seems like the only thing he didn't do is act as the team's waterboy !

Drafted in 2009 by the Jacksonville Jaguars from Liberty , Jennings hasn't had much of a chance between injuries to shine. Originally he starred as a true freshman running back at Pitt during the 2005 season. Due to his Father's diabetes, Jennings put his family first and transferred to the less recognized Liberty to be close to home .

Maurice Jones-Drew

After getting drafted by Jacksonville he sustained a concussion , then played as a backup for Maurice Jones-Drew . When Drew returned to the lineup as a starter Jennings was released. The Raiders picked him up this season. Except for a long touchdown he scored when still on the Jacksonville squad not much attention has paid to him.

For some unknown reason he registered on my radar screen from the start. Whatever is required he does. As he gets more involved in the offense he becomes more productive. At 6' 1 " , 231 pounds he is a big running back with the ability to also be a good receiver. His durability is not in question right now. I believe he has the potential to step up and be a NFL star. His work ethic is second to none and his mindset is beyond reproach. Maybe I'm being premature in my evaluation. Who Knows !

Terrelle Pryor

Marcel Reese

The injury misfortunes of the Oakland Raiders has proven to be fortunate for him. With the development of Terrelle Pryor at quarterback , Jennings could represent the next piece in the offensive puzzle. Run Marcel Reese inside for short yardage, give the starting reps to Jennings and also hit him on slant passes in the flat . If the offensive line can hold up then  Pryor could regularly hit open receivers. If I'm Greg Olson, the offensive coordinator I'd sit McFadden on the bench and let Jennings take the starting reps !  

The Oakland Raiders have an opportunity to produce a superstar talent that is already on their roster. If they don't give him the opportunity some other forward looking team will. In a NFL season awash with bad stories Rashad Jennings could be the one story to transcend the negative tide.

This story is dedicated to the memory of Ray Willsey , an assistant coach for the Silver and Black from 1978 to 1987. May he rest in peace. My condolences to his loved ones.

BarryRodriguez (c) 2013. All Rights Reserved.

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