Offensive MVP: Rishard Matthews
5 Rec, 71 Yards
After an offseason of dramatic change for the wide receiver position, where both young weapons and proven veterans were added, Rishard Matthews is still making plays and gaining trust from Marcus Mariota. On three different third-and-long situations, Matthews did exactly what coach Mike Mularkey and GM Jon Robinson have constantly raved about: get open and catch the ball.
Last season was a huge breakout year for Matthews. He almost had 1,000 yards receiving and definitely would have gotten there had Mariota and him started the season with the chemistry they ended it with. This is a new year, though, and since last year, the Mariota-Matthews connection has turned into a very consistent and reliable source for big plays. Mariota trusts 18 and it is very noticeable on the field. Let’s see Matthews get that grand of receiving yardage this season. His performance in the Raiders game was a good start and earned him the game’s Offensive MVP Award.