Raider Loss Mirrors Past Performances

Dec 6, 2012; Oakland, CA, USA; Oakland Raiders wide receiver Juron Criner (84) misses a catch while defended by Denver Broncos cornerback Champ Bailey (24) during the fourth quarter at O.co Coliseum. The Broncos defeated the Raiders 26-13. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports

Thursday night’s game with the Denver Broncos was a total loss for the Raiders. On the scoreboard it was a loss 26-13. In almost every statistical category it was a loss. Many of the errors that raised their ugly head are the same mistakes we have suffered thru during the season where repeated, returned and replayed.The Raiders have lost 6 in a row, and the rock slide doesn’t look to stop anytime soon

The Raiders are one dimensional team. Throw, throw throw. Carson Palmer throws well, not great. His weakness is he throws off his back-foot, he has not progressed on his throwing flaw. His 14 interceptions say he’s not improving. With several of those interceptions coming at critical times during scoring drives.

What makes the Raiders a one dimension throwing team is the fact that Darren McFadden has not been able to produce a ground game from his tailback position. His non production comes from not being able to adapt to OC Greg Knapps zone scheme or his multiple game or season ending injuries. McFadden’s break out year was 2010 when he rushed for 1157 yards and played in 13 games.McFadden’s- ypc ave.for his career is 4.5 he is well below that average as this year he averages 3.4 yrds per carry.

To add to the offensive woes of the Raiders is a depleted stable of quality personnel. Young receiver that make costly mistakes. The number one mistate is dropping passes (219). Time in, time out the Raider receivers have bobbled lazer passes that would have resulted in a positive play. Denarius Moore who has been a steady performer has slipped in the last two game dropping more than he catches. A young player that was on the rise has leveled off. Rod Streeter has jumped into the mix after a shaky start. Brandon Meyers remains Palmer’s go to guy with 70 catches for 728 yards.

The front seven of the Raider Defense has demonstrated at times the ability to dominate opponents offenses.Phillip Wheeler has stepped up and made a great contribution to the defensive unit. Miles Burris has to be living the dream third in team tackles he brings stability to the defensive side of the ball.

Holes in the secondary have provided opponents opportunities. Opponents complete pass after pass for 3rd down completions for first downs to keep drives alive or for a touchdown strike.

For the Raiders they have a chance to win the last three games on their schedule, Chefs, Panthers, and Chargers. All three team are struggling in the 2012 season. The Raiders have a great chance to jump start the remainder of the season with a victory over the KC Chefs next Sunday.

. “Start by doing what’s necessary; then do what’s possible; and suddenly you are doing the impossible.” – St. Francis of Assisi