As training camp opened in Napa, CA for the Oakland Raiders this week, there are several uncertainties that when answered will prove to be the key to the 2010 season. Will the Raiders continue to wallow in mediocrity as they have for the last seven seasons? Or will they return to contention and recapture the swagger that the Silver and Black were previously known for?
Only time will tell, but these five areas will be the keys to the franchise's direction this season.
Will newly acquired QB Jason Campbell provide needed leadership and spark?
Early reports out of Raiders camp indicate Campbell looks "sleek, sharp, athletic" in workouts with the team. This is a major difference from his predecessor, JaMarcus Russell, who often looked like a ten pound baloney stuffed into a two pound bag. Campbell has to be an improvement over Russell simply because it's hard to believe anyone could be much worse.
Campbell has the physical ability, and as long as he doesn't completely quit on the team (as Russell appeared to do last season) the Raiders QB situation will be vastly improved.
Will Darren McFadden finally justify being the No. 4 overall pick by having a break out season?
McFadden has had two years to show he was worthy of the draft choice (and contract he signed soon after) and has produced very little. DMC will be on a short leash this year, as Michael Bush will continue challenging him for carries. If McFadden doesn't get off to a fast start, don't be surprised to see him bumped to No. 2 on the depth chart.
Can this offensive line protect Jason Campbell and run block?
Guard Robert Gallery is back at full strength this season after missing a large part of last year with a leg injury. Gallery's return is good news for the running game. But the remainder of the offensive line is a big question mar...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Oakland Raiders
