The (Miniscule) Bright Side: 2 Good Takeaways From The Raiders' Defeat

Oh, that was a bad loss.  That was a really bad loss.  Anyone who thought it wouldn't be was severely let down.  Personally, I love my Raiders, but I braced for the worst. 

And yet, somehow in this blowout to the New York Giants, there were still two things I noted as positives the Raiders could take with them as they prepare for the Eagles.  They're very small positives compared to all of the glaring holes, but I figure enough people will accurately cover those issues.  I feel like being an optimist today.  Here are the two things I saw that give me some confidence:

1. An offensive touchdown.  Yes, laugh, say that that's a pathetic moral victory, but it was something the Raiders hadn't done in their last two games.  They hadn't scored a touchdown in those games period, offensive or defensive.  Sure, the Raiders got lucky with a fumbled punt return that they recovered, but they paid it back with JaMarcus' 3 fumbles.  (Starting to slip into negative thoughts...find a happy place...find a happy place...)

OK.  All better.  Where was I?  Ah yes, offensive touchdown.  Michael Bush needs more touches.  He will get more touchdowns.  Bush had 12 rushes for 37 yards; not adequate, but at least he scored.  If Bush gets over 20 touches in the game against the Eagles, he will eclipse 100 yards.  But, with such a poor performance, Bush's touchdown stands out as one of the few bright spots.  (I think I've squeezed every drop of goodness out of that performance, so we'll move on.)

2.  JaMarcus to Zach Miller.  This should be JaMarcus' #1 receiving option on every play until Chaz Schilens gets back on the field.  If JaMarcus is going back to pass, he should look at Miller first.  Miller has good hands and an ability to find himself open.  Miller had 4 catches for 70 yards; respectable numbers for a Tight End.  We've been waiting weeks for this connection.  If JaMarcus wants to get some confidence back, he needs to look to Miller, plain and simple.

OK Raider Nation, we're heading home to play Philly.  I hope I left you slightly optimistic about the game.  If you're reading this and live in the Oakland area, please go to the game.  Support our guys.  The season hasn't been pretty, but it's not over yet.  But, we need guys like Miller and Bush to take charge if we want to have a chance.