Why? Despite an abysmal season, this Raiders team has the roster depth to take advantage of a weary familiar divisional opponent—who just played a physical game against the defending Super Bowl champions, the Seattle Seahawks three days prior.
This circumstance favors Oakland in terms of bodies ready to play at optimum level on short rest. The Chiefs offense hinges on the playmaking ability of running back Jamaal Charles. Knile Davis has recently entered the fold, contributing 421 rushing yards and five touchdowns, per Pro-Football-Reference.com.
However, Charles is still the focal point of this offense—as he goes so do the Chiefs. In the three games Charles failed to score a touchdown, Kansas City failed to win the game.
Oakland’s roster doesn’t feature a bunch of Pro Bowl players, but they have compiled a deep roster that is somewhat proven on the professional level, specifically on offense. Offensive coordinator Greg Olson and interim head coach Tony Sparano need to spread the Chiefs defense thin and use speed to claim the victory.
Alex Smith isn’t going to beat an NFL team with his arm—throwing for more than 300 yards starting from his own 20-yard line. Field positioning is important. The Raiders cannot make critical mistakes giving Smith a short field to capitalize on turnovers.
Oakland must accomplish two objectives. First, spreading the ball on offense among their receivers. Second, maintaining control of the area between the line of scrimmage and midfield on defense.
Keep Charles Out of the End Zone
As mentioned, when Charles doesn’t score, the Chiefs don’t win. Kansas City lacks the playmakers to su...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Oakland Raiders
