Could this be the year that the Raiders return to their commitment to excellence? Let’s face it without JaMarcus Russell, Oakland have turned out to be a better team, winning three of their preseason contests behind the sold play of quarterback Jason Campbell.
But will Campbell be the hope that turns the past seasons’ misery around leading the Raiders to their first winning season since 2002, after finishing 5-11 in 2009?
He certainly has the tools to get it done with a supporting cast including RB Darren McFadden and Michael Bush–currently out with a thumb injury– along with some speedy receivers that should bolster the Raiders pitiful air assault that ranked 29th a year ago.
But much off Oakland’s success will still rest firmly in the shoulders of the defense, which had their own share of troubles last season mainly stemming from the offense leaving them out on the field for more than half of their games.
The Raiders finished 2009, 26th in total team defense while 29th against the run. They did however rank 7th against the pass, with a solid pass rush that racked up 37 sacks.
Oakland will look to new defensive additions Lamarr Houston, Rolando McClain, and Kamerion Wimbley to breathe life into the a hapless Raiders defense who will be put to an early test as they try to contain one of the best running backs in the league –Tennessee’s Chris Johnson.
Johnson finished 2009 with 2,006 yards on the ground and 14 TDs and is still a viable threat for a potent Titan’s running ...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Oakland Raiders
