During free agency this past offseason, the Oakland Raiders made it a point of emphasis to bolster the roster with seasoned veteran talent.
Journeymen like Tarell Brown, Justin tuck and LaMarr Woodley would help the young Raiders defense grow. Wide receiver James Jones and running back Maurice Jones-Drew would give veteran newly acquired quarterback Matt Schaub some offensive firepower.
In theory, these additions would allow Oakland to make a quick transition from 4-12 disappointment to AFC West contender.
That plan was quickly tossed out of the window.
Rookie quarterback Derek Carr supplanted Schaub before the season began and head coach Dennis Allen was fired after the first month resulted in a 0-4 record. The team has been outscored 103-51 over the first four weeks.
As a whole, the Raiders have underachieved and have struggled to play like a cohesive unit. Poor play-calling and questionable decision-making haven't helped.
Coming off a bye week and facing the rival San Diego Chargers in Week 6, the Raiders have an opportunity to make a statement and show that they can compete. However, interim head coach Tony Sparano will have to make some serious changes if Oakland is to defeat the 4-1 Chargers and become a relevant force for the remainder of the 2014 season.
One way that Sparano can make the Raiders a more competitive team is to better utilize the veteran personnel he has been handed. Not every veteran has struggled, of course, but at least one of Oakland's offseason additions has been a disappointment.
Though injuries have limited him to just two games this season, Jones-Drew has been virtually nonexistent. He has been given just 11 carries and has gained a paltry 12 yards on the year. While age and injuries may have slowed Jones-Drew, his low production is a clear reflection of the way the Raiders have mishandl...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Oakland Raiders
