Oakland Raiders: 5 Attainable Goals For The Team In 2015

Sep 28, 2014; London, UNITED KINGDOM; Miami Dolphins running back Daniel Thomas (30) drives through the Oakland Raiders defense during the second half of the game between the Miami Dolphins and the Oakland Raiders at Wembley Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Flynn-USA TODAY Sports

A Top 15 Run Defense

There is no question that Oakland’s defense got better in the later stages of the season. Their run defense in particular, was vastly improved. The statistics don’t particularly reflect that too well, given the fact that they gave up a tick under 120 yards per game for the season – 22nd in the league.

The Raiders were 22nd overall against the run in 2014, giving up 1,911 yards overall. Much of that damage was done early on in the year when they gave up some monster rushing yards – 115 yards plus in eight of the first ten games of 2014.

With proven run stuffers like Dan Williams and Curtis Lofton now in the fold, and combined with returning players like Justin Tuck, C.J. Wilson, Justin Ellis, Sio Moore, and of course, Khalil Mack, the Raiders front seven looks far more intimidating, and far more capable of defending against the run.

It will be vital for Oakland to be vastly improved against the run in 2015 if they hope to be competitive. They will need to shut down opposing running backs, deny third down conversions, get off the field, and give the offense a chance to score some points.

Given the signs of life against the run Oakland showed late last season, as well as the offseason additions, it’s not inconceivable that the Raiders can field a team that is at least within the top 15 against the run in the league.

Next: Must Learn To Run The Ball