Raiders vs. Chargers: Why Third Time's the Charm for Carson Palmer

Oakland Raiders' newly acquired quarterback Carson Palmer hasn't exactly had the dream start for the Silver and Black. 

Two weeks ago, the Kansas City Chiefs picked him off three times in his relief effort and went on to win 28-0. Last week, after Tim Tebow was exploited by the Lions at home, Palmer threw three more interceptions in defeat. 

Not all was horrible against the Broncos, however. Palmer tossed three touchdown passes and amassed 332 yards through the air. 

Tonight, when the Raiders take the field against the Chargers, Palmer will be in a position to have his best game of the season. 

The Chargers defense is unquestionably better than the Broncos, but in their past three games, opposing quarterbacks have exploited some of their weaknesses. Mark Sanchez and Matt Cassel seemed very comfortable in the second halves of both games passing against San Diego's secondary, and we all know what Aaron Rodgers did to it last week. 

I expect Darrius Heyward-Bey to see more than the one target he received last week, and the Raiders' receiving contingent as whole should be able to stretch the field with their speed. Not only will they be able to get open down the field, but Oakland will utilize Michael Bush, a capable runner, frequently. He isn't Darren McFadden, but he poses a similar, punishing threat. Bush carried the ball 19 times for 96 yards against Denver, and I expect him to see even more carries tonight.

San Diego's defense is allowing 120 yards on the ground per game.

An effective running game is a quarterback's best friend, and it will ease some of the pressure on Palmer. 

Lastly, he's had a sufficient amount of time formulate a rapport with his receivers, and it looks like Jacoby Ford may be his favorite target. He won't have the game of his life, but he'll do enough to get the Raiders this much-needed win at home.