JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The Raiders running game missed Latavius Murray. The fourth-year veteran added a physicality to the rushing attack only 6-foot-3, 230 pounds can bring when running with violence.
That was missing some during his two games sidelined with a case of turf toe. He was able to return for Sunday’s game at Jacksonville, and spearheaded a productive Raiders run game that churned out 144 yards on 34 carries in a 33-16 victory over the Jaguars.
Murray had 18 carries for 59 yards and two touchdowns in his return, which was made without aggravating his toe issue. He won’t love 3.3 yards per carry average, but his style completed a well-round rushing attack that got the job done.
“When we’re able to run the ball, we do good things,” Murray said. “I think I had good comfort as the game went on.”
Murray scored the Raiders’ first touchdown from two yards out, completing a 75-yard drive with 63 of them churned out on the ground.
His second scored virtually secured victory. A 9-yard touchdown run established a three-score lead with 2 minutes, 35 seconds left and the final margin of victory.
Murray credited the offensive line for getting good push and setting backs up for success.
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“Creating a new line of scrimmage up front, and they were about to get me and the other backs into the second level,” Murray said. “Those guys were awesome today.”
Murray was able to return without setting himself back. He’ll continue getting treatment and being smart with his feet to be well prepared for the next outing.
“I felt good,” Murray said. “Now it’s a matter of continuing to keep myself ahead of the game, take care of my body and do what I’ve been doing.”
