Oakland Raiders: Over/Under On Key Questions?
By Erik Lambert
Oct 13, 2013; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs running back Jamaal Charles (25) runs the ball as Oakland Raiders cornerback D.J. Hayden (25) attempts the tackle during the first half at Arrowhead Stadium. The Chiefs won 24-7. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports
There are several debatable topics regarding the Oakland Raiders and what they’ll accomplish in 2014. What are the over/under odds?
Games before Derek Carr replaces Matt Schaub
It might not be a quarterback controversy to some people, but anybody who thinks veteran Matt Schaub is not under threat of losing his starting job to rookie Derek Carr is not seeing the big picture. Schaub is 32-years old and coming off the worst season of his career. It’s not like he was acquired in a blockbuster deal. The Oakland Raiders took a flier on him in hopes he can recapture his old Pro Bowl form. However, if he falters early the calls for giving Carr, who has looked good in practice thus far, a shot will only grow.
Line: Seven games
Sacks for Khalil Mack
From the very beginning first round NFL draft pick Khalil Mack has said he wants to win Rookie of the Year for Oakland. To do that will require sacks, and probably more than a few of them. Names like Tom Brady, Peyton Manning and Blake Bortles are on his hit list with the regular season fast approaching. He will need a fast start to reach his goal, but can he get his total high enough?
Line: Nine sacks
Interceptions for D.J. Hayden
His rookie season for the Oakland Raiders was somewhat of a disappointment but fans are hopeful second-year corner D.J. Hayden can live up to the billing of his status as a 1st round draft pick. Such is something Raider plays haven’t been doing lately. Hayden came in with his injury red flags out of Houston and it didn’t help he missed eight games last season. The fact he struggled when he was on the field stung as well. Still, hopes are high that a full off-season healthy and an improved pass rush should help him take the next step.
Line: Four interceptions
Wins in 2014 NFL season
Of all the stats that matter to Oakland fans, this one is by far the most important. The Raiders have not had a winning season since 2002 and are coming off two-straight years of going 4-12. Many are praying the aggressive pursuits in free agency and strong NFL draft will be enough to get the team back into the thick of the AFC West race, a division which featured three playoff teams in 2013. They will need a lot of things to go right, but anything is possible.
Line: Eight games
Please voice your opinions below about what you think the Oakland Raiders will accomplish in 2014.