3 Simple Things the Raiders Need to Do to Beat the Chiefs

Can I really say it more clear than that? The Raiders have a 3-pronged running attack. They need to use it early and often. I understand they feel JaMarcus and DHB and everyone need to be involved in the game, but except for a few passes here and there to keep the defense honest, pound the ball down the Chiefs' throats, and don't let up.

For the Raiders to win, they'll need to play the game at their pace, and that means clock control. To do so, the Raiders need to hold onto the ball, and defensively cause some turnovers. I understand that this sounds like an obvious point, but it means making smart throws, getting good blocking on runs, and playing good, tight defense.

It's still up in the air who the Chiefs will start at QB. Whoever it is, the Raiders' line (and yes, even the linebackers once in a while, John Marshall) need to pressure the QB the way they did last week against Philip Rivers. I don't like Rivers, but the Chiefs don't have a single quarterback with half of the composure in the pocket that Rivers has. Put the pressure on any one of them, and they'll crack, even if just a little. From there, the defense can exploit the Chiefs' mistakes.

OK Tom, it won't be that easy. The Raiders need to have an all-around solid performance. Nnamdi needs to shut down Dwayne Bowe. Zach Miller will have to get open for passes. Javon Walker, if he plays, will want to make an immediate impact. Hiram Eugene, who may do punt returns for Johnnie Lee Higgins, will have to succeed. It should be a great game, and a great day to be a Raiders fan.