Why we don't suck as bad as it looked

[Concudan]

Very good defense? They were number #26 overall, #21 against the rush. Very good against us maybe since we couldn't run on them.

What were they rated before they lost the starters? They seemed to be able to slow down Denver and KC as well...

[Boltjolt]

What were they rated before they lost the starters? They seemed to be able to slow down Denver and KC as well...

I don't know but our defense was ranked higher. They may have had more defensive turnovers and sacks but I didn't look but before I looked at their rankings I knew they weren't good against the run except when they played us. Combined we only rushed for 145 on them.

[Panamamike]

FWIW....my numbers had the Raiders only 3% below average based on scoring allowed vs the offences played as of week 15 of last season. Personally, I find the rankings based on yards gained/allowed rediculous. I can not find the final few weeks numbers, but it gives a good baraometer IMO. There are better advanced metrics for sure.

[Concudan]

I don't know but our defense was ranked higher. They may have had more defensive turnovers and sacks but I didn't look but before I looked at their rankings I knew they weren't good against the run except when they played us. Combined we only rushed for 145 on them.

Ok. I am not going to write them off however. They are no longer the push over team they were the last 14 years.

[Bearded14YourPleasure]

I don't think anyone is saying their a push over any more. There is a tremendous amount of hype though for a team that still hasn't won a playoff game in well over a decade.

[RTPbolt]

I agree. They are much improved but no playoff wins to their credit and 1 year above 500 IIRC doesnt make them a powerhouse in my book. They do have some weapons but id stack our offense against theirs any day. Our Ds are similar but we have a few more strengths than they do when healthy.

Should be a good matchup. Just hope we stay healthy to that week.