Oakland Raiders: Michael Crabtree doubtful vs Denver
Raiders quarterback Derek Carr likely won’t have his favorite target Michael Crabtree on Sunday
Oakland Raiders leading receiver Michael Crabtree is unlikely to play Sunday against the Denver Broncos after suffering a chest injury last week. His status was officially downgraded from questionable to doubtful after not practicing on Friday.
Crabtree suffered the upper body injury in a loss to the Washington Redskins last Sunday and was limited in practice leading up to the Broncos game.
With 13 catches for 170 yards, Crabtree has been Derek Carr’s favorite, and most consistent, target through the first three games. Amari Cooper has suffered from multiple dropped passes but will need to step up against Denver.
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Expect tight end Jared Cook and wide receiver Seth Roberts to receive extended playing time in Denver with the 30-year-old Crabtree on the mend.
Not having a starting receiver with Crabtree’s abilities will make the Raiders chances of knocking off their division rivals even tougher. Denver has only allowed 179 rushing yards in their first three games; they’re already set to eliminate Marshawn Lynch on the ground.
The only teams that have allowed fewer rushing yards this year are the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Miami Dolphins, who’ve only played two games after their opener was rescheduled due to Hurricane Irma.
Denver’s defense has allowed seven passing touchdowns, tied for second-most in the NFL thus far. Surprisingly, only the New England Patriots have allowed more receiving touchdowns this season.
Crabtree’s official status will be posted closer to kickoff at 4:25 E.T. out in Denver.