Chris Pedota, NorthJersey.com-USA TODAY NETWORK

Raiders Opponent Breakout Player: Micah McFadden

Originally posted on FanNation Raider Maven
By Carter Landis | Last updated 11/2/23

The Las Vegas Raiders will turn their attention to their match-up with the New York Giants at Allegiant Stadium on Sunday.

The Giants have struggled similarly to the Raiders this season, unable to move the ball and posting serviceable defensive games. After a postseason appearance, the Giants have come back down to earth.

Defensive Coordinator Wink Martindale's unit is playing at a respectable level, however, and there have been encouraging signs from some of their young players. That includes linebacker Micah McFadden, who has started every game for the Giants this season. New York may have found a long-term option in McFadden if he continues to play at this level.

McFadden was a fifth-round selection in the 2022 NFL Draft out of Indiana. He got quite a bit of run in his rookie season, posting 59 total tackles, six tackles for loss, two sacks, and a forced fumble. He is on pace to shatter those numbers in his second season, currently with 48 total tackles, five tackles for loss, two passes defended, half a sack, and an interception.

McFadden fits the mold of a modern-day linebacker, a bit smaller at 6-foot-2 and 232 pounds with good coverage ability. While he is still a good run defender and can get to the quarterback, McFadden plays a cerebral, calculated style of football, always looking to put himself in the best position and making as few mistakes as possible.

McFadden performed well against the San Francisco 49ers in Week 3, posting 10 tackles and four tackles for loss against a high-powered offense. Despite a 40-0 loss to the Dallas Cowboys in Week 1, McFadden posted 11 tackles.

For a Raiders team that has been unable to move the ball, facing a player like McFadden provides challenges. He thrives pursuing the ball carrier and has shown the ability to make plays in the backfield, which does not bode well for a Raiders team that has not gotten the run game going.

The Giants may have found their long-term answer at linebacker in McFadden due to his high football IQ and ability to play mistake-free football. He has broken out in his second season in the league and could cause problems for the Raiders on Sunday.

The Silver and Black will return to Allegiant Stadium to take on the New York Giants on Sunday, Nov. 5, at 4:25 p.m. EST/1:25 p.m. PST.

This article first appeared on FanNation Raider Maven and was syndicated with permission.

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