Oakland Raiders: 7 Things To Watch For In Second Preseason Game

Aug 8, 2014; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings running back Dominique Williams (43) is tackled by Oakland Raiders defensive tackle Torell Troup (64) during the fourth quarter at TCF Bank Stadium. The Vikings defeated the Raiders 10-6. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports

The Oakland Raiders got off to a solid start last week in defeating the St. Louis Rams 18-3. The offense looked sharp and seems poised for great things in 2015. The defense certainly had its moments with some terrific play. Now, the question becomes, can they build on the momentum generated by that first game?

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Though he did throw an interception trying to force a ball into the endzone to help close out the first half, Derek Carr had a solid showing. He finished his limited time against the Rams with a respectable six for nine, 43 yard performance. He showed that he is developing a solid chemistry with new weapons Amari Cooper and Michael Crabtree, and looked to be in command on the field.

The defense buckled early, allowing the Rams to drive to their 13 yard line before stiffening and forcing St. Louis to settle for a field goal – the Rams’ only points on the day. The defense held the Rams to 285 total yards of offense – 199 through the air and just 86 on the ground. They also account for three sacks, and generally made life uncomfortable for St. Louis.

All in all, it was a good performance. There are definitely some issues that still need to be resolved and questions that need answers. It was far from a perfect performance. But it was a very good first step. Especially for a team not known for making good steps at all over the last decade. It seems that the labors of GM Reggie McKenzie, along with HC Jack Del Rio are beginning to flower and bear fruit.

As Oakland attempts to build upon the momentum they achieved with their opening exhibition win, here are some things that are worth watching as the Raiders roll into Minnesota for a date with the Vikings.

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