Raiders vs. Dolphins: 4 Halftime Adjustments for Oakland

The Dolphins have held down the home field in the first half, shutting out Oakland 13-0 heading into the locker room. If the Raiders want to pull off a comeback, they will need to make several halftime adjustments.

1. Watch the penalties

It’s the same old story for Oakland. Just when you think they are building some momentum, a yellow flag is tossed and the team loses substantial yardage. If the penalties continue, the offense might never get in a rhythm. 

2. Protect Palmer

Carson Palmer should be tearing it up with the deep ball against Miami's below-average secondary. Problem is, Oakland’s offensive line is not doing a good job protecting its quarterback. If Palmer can get more time to manufacture plays, the Raider offense might get the spark that it desperately needs.

3. Pressure the quarterback

Matt Moore has more fumbles than games played this season. When the opposition’s pass-rush gets in his face, he finds a way to cough up the football. Thus far, the Raiders have given him way too much time to find his receivers.

4. Win the Bush battle                                   

Miami may have a formidable run defense, but the Raiders can’t shy away from pounding the ball with Michael Bush. Even without Darren McFadden, running is Oakland’s bread and butter and needs to be mixed in more with the pass. So far, Reggie Bush is winning the Bush-on-Bush battle.