Droppin

It has been a while since I have posted anything about the Raiders and we are now three games into the preseason so this is long overdue. 

Yes, the Raiders are undefeated at 3-0 so far but as we all know, preaseason win records are meaningless (although it does feel good doesn’t it?).  Even though the offensive starters looked better against the Whiners last week, they have been shaky to say the least.  Let’s also not forget that they were playing against one of the worst teams in the league.  I still have hope that this squad will be better than last year but I am far from making any post season type of predictions.  Here are my concerns:

1. Offensive line – I was hoping that Coach Shell would have this unit in tip top form but this has not been the case.  I hope they gel quickly and turn this around or it will be a long season.  This leads to my next two points…

2.  Quarterback play – The accuracy of Brooks is also a concern but I think the lack of protection can take part of the blame.  Brooks also needs to develop better chemistry with Moss.  I am not suggesting Moss be the target on the majority of the plays but so far (in limited action mind you) Brooks has only thrown his way less than 10 times this preseason.  I don’t think that Walters is the answer either (at least for now) but he has shown some potential for the future.

3.  Running game – How many times has Jordan been stuffed at the line so far this year?  Again, part of the blame needs to be given to the Oline but I have not yet seen the energy and drive that I saw last year.  Maybe he is saving up for the real season.

On the flip side, the defense has shown improvements and I think they will be better than the experts are predicting.  They just need to stay away from the mental penalities and they should not be a liability this year.  Also, I think it is safe to say that Sebass is back.  The loss of weight combined with the competition in camp has seemed to motivate him this year.  I am very excited about his performance so far.  Notice how I did not list Porter as a concern.  As far as I am concerned, he can remained burried on the depth chart.  His selfish attitude is a perfect illustration of the recent Raider mindset and we need this squad to put the team first if they want to succeed.

There is still plenty of time to work these issues out and I still remain hopeful that they will.  RAIIIIIIIDERRRRRRRS!