2008 Oakland Raiders NFL Predictions

Many changes were made to the Raiders prior to the 2007 season, but all Oakland had to show for them was a 4-12 record. The Raiders are just 19-61 over the past five years and team owner Al Davis is running out of ideas. Will the once-proud franchise finally show some life this season. Jimmy Boyd's 2008 Oakland Raiders predictions and season preview give you his take.
 

Bet on Football Using Your Credit Card

Offense

2007 number one overall draft pick JaMarcus Rusell will get the ball for his first full season as starter. He didn't see significant playing time until week 16 last season and only started one game. The Raiders QB of the future is sure to take his fair share of bumps and bruises, but he should benefit from an upgraded supporting cast. The Raiders former QB of the future, Andrew Walter will be Russell's backup until his contract expires in two years. For the sake of the Raiders, hopefully Russell won't endure the same fate.

The Raiders' running game appears to be in good shape after acquiring the most potent offensive weapon in the draft – Darren McFadden. The Raiders will look to get him the ball in an assortment of ways to utilize his speed on the outside. Having to account for McFadden on the field at all times will likely open things up even more for Justin Fargas. He didn't start until week 7 and missed the last two games of the season, but he was still able to grind out over 1,000 yards. Michael Bush, now recovered from a broken leg suffered two years ago in college, will also make a case for a role.

Ronald Curry should get a little more help this season with the acquisitions of free agents Javon Walker and Drew Carter. Tight end Zach Miller looks to be a future Pro Bowler. He led all rookie tights with 44 receptions last season and Russell looked his way often in the final two games of the year.

The offensive line is showing great progress. Last season, the line cut its sacks allowed from 72 to 41 and went from 29th in rushing to sixth.

Defense

The Raiders are hoping that Tommy Kelly can replace the retired Warren Sapp at the 3-technique tackle slot. Derrick Burgess is the team's best pass rusher, but his sack numbers are on the decline. He's gone from 16 to 11 to eight. The Raiders need more from left end Jay Richardson to keep the opposition from doubling Burgess.

Middle Linebacker Kirk Morrison and weak side backer Thomas Howard are two of the best at their positions in terms of pass coverage. They combined for 10 interceptions. Morrison has led the Raiders in tackles three straight seasons and Howard has some of the best speed in the league at his spot. Both players may need to give up some of their pass coverage tendencies to improve against the run as Oakland finished 29th in the league in rushing defense.

With Nnamdi Asomugha and the newly acquired DeAngelo Hall, the Raiders have arguably the best cornerback duo in the league. With the acquisition of the hard-hitting Gibril Wilson, the Raiders may even be able to move Michael Huff to free safety. These moves should make an already solid unit even stronger.

Special Teams

Kicker Sebastian Janikowski has a strong leg, but he is too streaky. He missed nine attempts in 2007 and his 71.9 percentage was the worst of his career. The punting game is in good hands with Shane Lechler who finished 2007 with a 49.1 net average.

Prediction – 3rd AFC West

The Raiders are in better shape than the Chiefs and that will keep them out of the AFC West basement. The Chargers have the most talent and depth in the division by far and the Broncos are in a better spot than Oakland as well because of Jay Cutler's progress. The Raiders have a solid running game developing, but the passing game will continue to hold them back.

Break the bank with Jimmy Boyd's 2008 NFL picks. No other handicapper spends as much time in the research room and no other handicapper cares more about winning money for his clients by beating the NFL odds.

Check out the official site of the Oakland Raiders and for more information.

July 2nd, 2008