OAKLAND – Raiders quarterback Derek Carr was rendered inactive for Sunday's game against Baltimore. That move was telegraphed despite the fact he was considered questionable and pushed to play despite a transverse process fracture in his back.
EJ Manuel will start at quarterback, as expected.
The remaining Raiders inactives are cause for alarm. The Raiders named four other players questionable before Sunday. None of them will play.
This list includes some key contributors.
The Raiders will play without cornerbacks David Amerson (concussion) and Gareon Conley (shin), right guard Gabe Jackson (foot) and running back DeAndre Washington (hamstring). Tackle Jylan Ware and defensive lineman Jihad Ward are the only healthy scratches.
The Raiders' thin secondary will use a rotation similar to last week. Sean Smith and TJ Carrie will start and play on the outside, with Dexter McDonald in during sub packages.
That group fared well against a talent Broncos receiver corps. A repeat performance will be crucial to victory, as will sustained health. They have four healthy cornerbacks, though Keith McGill can play the position as well.
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Jackson's injury creates a void the offensive line must account for. They have depth inside, with Jon Feliciano taking Jackson's place.
Washington's absence means more work for Jalen Richard, who has been efficient when given the ball. Marshawn Lynch's activity could increase as well as the Raiders run game looks to get right.
