A Look at The Offense Of The Oakland Raiders

Here's my view on what I think is a unit ready to emerge this year, and I'll explain why.

Quarterbacks- Jamarcus Russell is ready to have a break out year, and is unfairly criticized. He had 13 TD's last year, but more importantly, he only had eight interceptions. This shows that he values the football, which is a very important concept for young quarterbacks to understand.

It's true he also had some fumbles, but I don't feel this will not be an issue, as he was not atrocious at it, Russell just needs to remember to protect the football when he scrambles, which he doesn't do enough of, in my opinion.

The main reason I think he is set for a break out is Quarterback coach Paul Hackett, who has worked with some of the most accurate Quarterback's in modern day history. Montana, Gannon, and Pennington is a pretty good list to have on your resume. Hackett will help JaMarcus be accurate, and make good decisions. I love this hire.

Runningbacks-In my opinion Michael Bush needs to the have majority of the carries this year. He's a bruiser, but he's nimble, and he's explosive. He reminds me of a young Jerome Bettis, I really think he will have a good year. Also, he played Quarterback in High School, which makes him dangerous in the BlackCat with McFadden.

Darren McFadden- Is lightning fast and ultra-versatile. He will be the difference maker if he can stay healthy and get about 15-20 touches a game. The originator of the Wildcat at Arkansas, look out for that from time to time as well. Scary for opposing defenses already.

Justin Fargas- Is gritty, and a Raider to the core, but just not on the same level as either of the other 2. Probably a great teammate, just not a game changer.

Fullbacks - Lorenzo Neal is a sure-fire first ballot HOFer, and seemed to play pretty well last year in Baltimore. No reason to think he won't be productive, barring injury.

Wide Receivers-  The biggest question mark for our beloved Raiders, let me see if I can ease those fears.

Chaz Schillens- I think he came on strong at the end of the year, and from what I've read about the off-season, his development is very encouraging. He's big at 6'4" and about 225, and runs well. He provides a big target for JaMarcus and they should develop together.

Johnie Lee Higgins- Coming along in his development also, I believe. As JaMarcus grows so will the WR corps. Is a possible Pro-Bowl returner. Youtube him from last year if you dont believe me.

Tightends- Zach Miller-  Is JaMarcus's favorite target, and I wouldn' expect that to change. Crafty against the zone, and reliable against man coverage, he's also a sturdy blocker.

Offensive Line- Gallery and Carlisle are solid, and I think Satele is an up-grade over Jake Grove, although I admit I base that solely on the rankings in Madden. Khalif Barnes is only 27, has been solid if not un-spectacular in 57 career starts. Mario Henderson is a mystery. He seemed to play well last year, but he had a TE on his side to chip often. He will be given a chance to earn the starting a starting spot on the line, and will do just enough to be a starter.

Overall I expect this to be a much improved unit for the 2009 season, as I feel the coaches hired and retained in the offseason were all truly professional, and good teachers of the game. I think the Nation has reason to be excited about the future, which may start sooner than anyone anticipates.