The Oakland Raiders should have been in the 2011 NFL Playoffs.

That is an absolute true fact that can't be refuted.

Okay, I'm being naive.

However, I truly do believe that the Raiders belonged in the playoffs this year. They had a top 10 offense and ranked 11th in defense.

What held them back? Well, inept coaching, stupid kicking mistakes and injuries all contributed to Oakland's mediocre and unacceptable (in Al Davis' eyes) record this (or is it last) season.

However, the main thing that killed the Raiders in 2010 was poor, and I mean very poor, offensive line play. A plethora of things contributed to the dismal performance of the line, ranging from inexperience to being too old.

To make things worse, the Raiders' best offensive lineman, Robert Gallery is now a free agent.

Let him walk.

"What?," you might have just muttered.

Let Robert Gallery go sign with Seattle.

That's best for the Raiders in the long-term, as they've switched to a power blocking scheme, which Robert Gallery doesn't fit in. Also, he's 30 years old and would come at a hefty price.

I know, I know. I truly think Robert Gallery is a great person and a good player. I'd like if the Raiders could keep him, but it's doubtful at this point.

Mike Pouncey could lead a massive overhaul of the Raider offensive line.
Eliot J. Schechter/Getty Images

Instead, sign Jared Gaither, a 24 year old massive tackle who worked with Al Saunders and Hue Jackson in Baltimore. He'd play left tackle. Move Jared Veldheer (entering his sophomore season) to right tackle.

Back-up Daniel Loper will replace Robert Gallery. He actually filled in very well when Gallery was injured earlier in the year.

At right guard, the Raiders should try and pick up Logan Mankins. However, it's somewhat likely he'll re-sign with the Patriots. If so, draft a solid guard in Round 2 who can come in and start right away.

In Round 3, draft an interior lineman who could come in and compete with Samson Satele for the starting center position. Clint Boling is a guy I like.

Or the Raiders could opt to trade into the first round, get Mike Pouncey and maybe even find Boling in the third round if they still have the pick.

Then the offensive line of the Oakland Raiders, from left to right, would be:

Gaither, Loper, Pouncey, Boling and Veldheer.

That's pretty solid and would probably launch the Raiders into the playoffs for 2012.

It's a quick, large group of players who would fit in Oakland's scheme nicely. I'm really liking how that looks.

What do you think Raider Nation? Tell me what you want done about the o-line situation below.