Oakland Raiders: The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly vs. Chargers

Oct 9, 2016; Oakland, CA, USA; Oakland Raiders quarterback Derek Carr (4) reacts after throwing a touchdown pass against the San Diego Chargers in the third quarter at Oakland Coliseum. The Raiders defeated the Chargers 34-31. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 9, 2016; Oakland, CA, USA; Oakland Raiders quarterback Derek Carr (4) reacts after throwing a touchdown pass against the San Diego Chargers in the third quarter at Oakland Coliseum. The Raiders defeated the Chargers 34-31. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oakland Raiders
October 9, 2016; Oakland, CA, USA; Oakland Raiders linebacker Perry Riley Jr. (54) forces a fumble by Oakland Raiders tight end Ryan O /

The Good: Perry Riley Jr.

The Raiders made a move that – outside of some snickers and shouts of “good riddance” from the Washington fanbase – didn’t create much of a buzz last season when they picked up castoff cornerback David Amerson.

The move, quite obviously paid off, as Amerson has become one of the best cornerbacks in the league. His play last season led the Raiders to sign him to a very lucrative extension this offseason, locking him up for the next few years.

Oakland is looking to catch lightning in a bottle once again with the pick up of former Washington linebacker Perry Riley Jr. Signed on October fourth, Riley was playing for the Raiders five days later. And not just playing, but having a huge impact for the team.

In his first game – again, just five days after being signed – Riley’s seven tackles (six solo) led the defense. He was a force all over the field and showed a real strong nose for the ball. After one game, it looks like the Raiders might have struck gold again.

Given Oakland’s need for some help at the inside linebacker spot, as well as some injury trouble, the acquisition of Riley was a necessity. He’s big, athletic, and has shown to be a capable defender against the run or the pass.

He most certainly seems to be an upgrade over Ben Heeney in the middle of the defense. In addition to his tackles, Riley was also credited with a forced fumble.

The Raiders’ inside linebackers group is still a work in progress and opposing tight ends are still having their way with them. Antonio Gates and Hunter Henry combined for 104 yards on seven receptions and had two touchdowns.

But Riley is showing that he may just have what it takes to help shore up that leaky unit and provide some quality play in the middle of the defense.