The Oakland Raiders are fresh off a huge win on the road against the Houston Texans, but even more importantly, the are dealing with an even worse loss.
Long-time Raiders owner Al Davis died last week, which left the NFL in shock. It left Oakland's tight-knit fanbase known as Raider Nation in shock as well, and the condolences and support in the aftermath have been overwhelming.
Oakland went out last week and captured a very emotional win, and I expect them to use this as a deep motivation for the rest of the season.
The Browns are coming in at 2-2 and have widely underachieved to their potential. It's the first game in Oakland since Davis's passing, which means the atmosphere is going to be somber, but passionate and inspiration.
I expect the Raiders to have an incredible home-field advantage.
Where: O.co Coliseum, Oakland, CA
When: Sunday Oct. 16. 4:05 p.m EDT
Watch: CBS, DirecTV 712, NFL RedZone
Listen: WMMS 100.7 FM, WTAM 1100 AM, Sirius 92 Cleveland; Live 105.3 FM KITS, Sirius 139 Oakland
Stream: NFL.com packages
Betting Line (Bodog.com): Oakland Raiders -7
What's At Stake:
This is a huge and emotional homecoming for the Raiders, who are also trying to stay in the race with the San Diego Chargers. The Browns are really one win away from being back in the thick of things in the AFC North, so there is plenty at stake in this game.
Cleveland Injury Report:
Did Not Practice 10/12: Cornerback Joe Haden (knee), center Alex Mack (illness).
Oakland Injury Report:
Did Not Practice 10/12: Linebacker Rolando McClain (ankle), running back Marcel Reece (ankle), defensive end Matt Shaughnessy (shoulder).
