7 tough matchups awaiting Russell Okung in 2020
By Dean Jones
Maxx Crosby (Week 1 on Carolina Panthers schedule)
Russell Okung will not have to wait long before he faces a pass-rusher with tremendous upside during his time with the Carolina Panthers. Defensive end Maxx Crosby will be his first adversary in week one when the Las Vegas Raiders pay a visit to Bank of America Stadium.
Crosby came from relative obscurity last season to emerge as one of the NFL’s biggest surprises. Not much was expected initially from the fourth-round selection. But his relentless motor eventually saw him attain 11 sacks and four forced fumbles from his rookie season.
He is expected to come on leaps and bounds for that experience. Which represents a severe test of Okung’s credentials. The left tackle will need to use all his knowhow to prevent Crosby from having too much influence during one of the games that the Panthers probably have marked as winnable next term.
Another standout feature to Crosby’s game is his anticipation. He was around the ball a great deal for the Raiders last season. And he plays the game with a reckless abandon that made him an instant favorite with head coach Jon Gruden and the team’s passionate fanbase.
There is every chance Crosby can get close to double-digit sacks once again in 2020. This becomes more likely given the improved talent around him as the Raiders look to mark their first season in Las Vegas with a postseason berth.