Oakland Raiders Passing Game Is Key in Buffalo Bills Matchup

While it is true the Raiders haven't had an aerial onslaught for a long time, it was generally believed that the passing game would be improved over the 2010 season with an additional year of experience for Jason Campbell and Jacoby Ford.

The departure of Zach Miller and subsequent injury to new signee Kevin Boss did little to dispel the notion that the Raiders passing attack is still a work in progress.

It was never more noticeable than in the Raiders opening game victory, where they amassed a mere 105 yards. RB Darren McFadden had 156 total yards, just for comparison.

It appears the Raiders will be forced to rely heavily on the running game early the season, but the passing offense will be vitally important for the Raiders quest to open the season 2-0.

The Bills blew away the Chiefs last weekend with an offense that scored 41 points. The Raiders defense is, on paper better than that of the Chiefs; however, it appears that the team with the more potent offense will win the day.

Performances of injured tight end Boss and Ford are vital to the Raiders success.

Boss was unable to play in Week 1, and the Raiders were without their usual steadfast tight end in the passing game. In recent years, that role was filled by Zach Miller. Boss has the talent to play the same role, but obviously, he needs to be on the field to do so.

Brandon Meyers was the primary tight end in Week 1 and wasn't effective in a pass catching role.

The Raiders also need to see more from Ford and Chaz Schilens. Ford fumbled the ball away on his first catch of the night and sustained a minor injury, removing him from the proceedings in the second half.

He is an electric player when healthy, but that health is currently in question.

Another injury favorite is Chaz Schilens, who is two years removed from a breakout season. However, injuries have set him back yet again, and any sort of production would be welcomed.

Derek Hagan was a stud in the preseason, but was inactive for the game because he wasn't completely "100 percent." He needs to play Sunday, as any carry over from the preseason would be helpful.

Jason Campbell is a solid quarterback. Not great, but solid.

He needs a decent receiving corps to succeed. The Raiders group is young, but talented and health is key. If the Raiders receivers can get healthy and perform decently, they should have a good chance to be victorious in Buffalo this weekend.