What could we expect from both teams’ lead running backs on Sunday?

If we’ve learned anything this season so far, it’s that when in doubt, feed Josh Jacobs.

Going into Week 9, Jacobs is top five in the league in rushing yards, rushing touchdowns and carries.

After rushing for over 140 yards in three straight games, the running back, like the rest of the Raiders offense, ran into trouble against the Saints defense. The Alabama running back rushed for 43 yards last Sunday, his lowest total this season. The Silver and Black have proven to be at their best this season when they control the time of possession with a fierce running attack led by Jacobs.

“[W]e’re excited the way Josh has played,” General Manager Dave Ziegler said Wednesday. “As a running back, when you get in the NFL, it can be a short-term thing. It’s a tough position to play, and Josh has shown improvement over the course of his career, and I think he’s really taken a step this year. His ball security has really improved, he’s improved in the pass game, he’s improved in pass protection.

“He’s always been a great runner. He continues to be a great runner. And he embodies a lot of the things that we’re looking for in terms of a football player – his work ethic, his approach every day. I mean, this guy practices extremely hard. Josh has a lot of the qualities that we look for, and a lot of the qualities that we want going forward.”