Last week they failed to beat the Texans and lost 31-24. The game was really a tale of two halves. In the first half, it looked like a defensive game, as each team scored only 14 points. The second half opened with a bang as running back Arian Foster showed the Raiders' defense what type of back he really is.
Foster opened the second half with a 74-yard run that really exploited the Raiders' defense. It seemed at times the Texans were just too much for the Raiders to handle, as the Texans' offense completely had their way, with a total of 441 yards (249 yards from the running game).
The defense of the Raiders really needs to improve fast if they are to compete in the AFC West. Otherwise they maybe headed on the same trail they have been in the last seven years.
The change can begin as they take on San Diego this Sunday. The Raiders need to take into account several things going in this game.
The last time the two teams played, the Chargers defeated Oakland for the 13th straight time. This week, we'll see how much the Raiders have improved.
The offseason was full of optimism, especially coming from defense. The team basically had a complete overhaul to enhance the talent on the field and the coaches as well. The Raiders were supposed to fix the obstacles they had on defense in previous years.
The team made several offseason moves by first selecting Rolando McClain and Lamarr Houston as their first two draft picks in April this year. The Raiders picked up veteran players like Quentin Groves, Kamerion Wimbley, and John Henderson. With the re-signing of Richard Seymour and holding on to Tommy Kelly, the front seven on paper looked great.
Several factors can't happen if the R...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Oakland Raiders