Oakland Raiders 2011 Preseason Preview: 8 Things to Watch Week 1

Published: August 10, 2011Posted in: Oakland RaidersTags:
It's finally here. Real football. After the most historic yet frustrating offseason in the history of the National Football League, football finally returns Aug. 11. The Oakland Raiders are coming into a season where their expectations are a bit higher than in years past. Yes, the Raiders are considered true contenders in their AFC West division and could quite possibly be the champions of that division come season's end. The foundation of that lofty goal begins in the preseason.

True, the preseason is meant for coaches to evaluate their team and young prospects but coaches around the league will always say there is nothing wrong with taking pride in a preseason victory. Raiders head coach Hue Jackson's philosophy is, "If they are keeping score, I want to win."

The Raiders had a respectable season with an 8-8 record this past year, with a perfect 6-0 record within their own division. The Raiders believe the 2010 AFC West Championship belonged to them, and they are hungry to finish what they started.

The Raiders have a few holes to fill and plan to use the preseason to separate the good from the great. Here are some things to watch out for heading into Week 1 of the preseason.

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