Fresh off a bye week, the Raiders look to get back to their winning ways against a Bronco team that has struggled with Tebow at the helm. Carson Palmer spent the bye week working with his receivers to gain some familiarity and comfort level. The Broncos last week were beaten by the Lions 45-10. The Raiders look to continue their dominance against the Broncos in recent years, winning their last 4 meetings between the two. Let's take a look at the matchups and predict a winner.
Raiders Offense vs. Broncos Defense
The Raiders will be without the services of Darren McFadden and will rely on Michael Bush, who has fared pretty well in his career against the Broncos. Carson Palmer will get his first start as a Raider and should be helped with the addition of T.J. Houshmandzadeh, his teammate in Cincinnati. The Broncos on defense have done a pretty good job of slowing down team's running games, only allowing 3.9 yards a rush, which is good for 8th in the league. This matchup will come down to whether or not Carson has success throwing the football.
Advantage: Raiders
Raiders Defense vs. Broncos Offense
The Broncos have struggled with consistency on offense with Tebow leading the team, showing why he is viewed by some as a work in progress. Coach John Fox has said that his opportunities are diminishing if he doesn't show improvement week to week. This game will be a test on whether or not he is ready to take that next step. He'll be coming into a hostile environment in Oakland, fresh off a bye and ready to get back to playing football. The Raiders have improved on defense the last three weeks against the run, only giving up under 100 yards a game on the ground on average. This will be key for the Raiders to stop the Broncos offense. Much of the Broncos success is predicated on whether Tebow and company can move the ball on the ground.
Advantage: Raiders
Special Teams
The Raiders should have Janikowski back kicking field goals this week after missing the Chiefs game with an injured hamstring. Everyone else is healthy and ready to go. The Raiders will look to keep Decker from burning them on punt returns like he did against them in week one, returning one for a TD.
Advantage: Raiders
Prediction: Raiders 24, Broncos 10
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