Fantasy Football Week 7: Projections for Carson Palmer's Raiders Debut

It's the dawn of a new era in Oakland with former Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Carson Palmer under center. That being said, Palmer should start this week against AFC West rival Kansas City, and rightfully so, because who gives up two potential first-round picks (one definite) for a quarterback and then doesn't start him?

In addition, Palmer is the best option over Kyle Boller or rookie Terrelle Pryor.

Now with that in mind, how well does Palmer perform in his first game wearing the Silver and Black?

We have to remember that he hasn't played since the end of 2010, held out all of training camp and  makes his first start with a new team. It will take Carson a few series to get his feel for the game back.

Luckily for Palmer, Oakland has the No. 2-ranked rushing offense and two Brahma Bulls who can rip off the town all day long.

Darren McFadden is the current NFL rushing leader with 610 yards, just ahead of Fred Jackson from Buffalo with 601.

And although his trusty sidekick Michael Bush only has 138 yards, he still as three touchdowns, so if there's any doubt to Carson's decision-making in short-yardage situations, smashing through the trenches with Bush will suffice.

As for Kansas City, their defense ranks No. 17 against the pass and No. 21 against the rush, respectively, but the game is also in Oakland, so obviously the Raiders have the advantage there as well.

Now that we've covered some of the tangible and intangible effects of how Palmer will perform, how does he actually perform?

Well, there's a good chance that coach Hue Jackson has Carson throw deep on his first play from scrimmage, just to let K.C. know early that just because there's a new guy under center doesn't mean we're not coming after you.

However, he will get off to a slow start, as running the football is Oakland's first priority. And why not? Run DMC is their best player, so utilize his skills as much as possible. It's only going to take pressure off the passing game, keep the defense honest and set up the play-action pass.

So, by the middle of the second quarter/early third quarter (at the latest), Palmer will be given the green light on a more consistent basis.

The only thing playing against him is the chemistry and synergy with the offensive line and receiving targets, because feeling the pass rush and keeping your eyes down field is never easy, even for a pro.

That said, Carson has to excited about a fresh start and a chance to revive his career for the better.

Therefore, expect him to finish the day about 25-of-40 with around 240 passing yards, one TD and one pick.

It's obviously nowhere near his best, but you can't expect much more with a great ground game (because you throw to score, but you run to win), and the fact that he has not played since 2010 while also missing the entirety of training camp.

Nonetheless, Carson Palmer is going to climb back with the Oakland Raiders.

Be sure to check out John on Bleacher Report. 

And, you can follow him on Twitter @ Sportswriter27.