Most impressive was the fact that the Raider defense did an exceptional job holding down Chicago's first team offense even without the services of Chris Johnson, Nnamdi Asomugha, Richard Seymour and Big John Henderson.
A couple things to note: Stanford Routt looked remarkably competent in pass coverage, and it took all of one preseason game for rookie Lamar Houston to command a double team from the opposing offense.
This spells success for the emerging Oakland defense. When Richard Seymour returns, it will be virtually impossible to double team both men, and the result should be complete havoc in the opposition's backfield. The Raider's haven't had that kind of push up front in years.
In game one against Dallas, we showcased the ability to create pressure with four down lineman. In game two it was newly acquired Kamerion Wimbley who created the pressure from his Sam linebacker position. Wimbley amassed an impressive four sacks in just one half of service with the first team defense.
With the exception of a lapse in gap responsibility that led to one big 89 yard home run by Matt Forte, the run defense looked solid.
Rolando McClain continues to learn the ropes as a rookie and has yet to prove to be a significant factor in the defense; but it is still very early. There were only two plays that come to mind where he looked confused or out of position. The aforementioned run by Forte, and the successful two point conversion by Chicago in the first half. Middle linebacker is one of the toughest positions to learn as a rookie, McClain will be just fine.
Offensively, the first team looked much better than in last weeks game. Even without Darren McFadden, Darrius Heyward-Bey, and Chaz Schillens, the first team scorched Chicago for two quick scores and an impressive aerial as...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Oakland Raiders
