[Bette]

The Raiders have stunk for the last several years. Loved by their fierce, loyal fans and hated by every other team's fans, is it time for them to turn the corner? Is this the year they can do it?
They have a solid defense this year with a coaching staff able to put players where they are needed. They also have a cornerback who is arguably the best in the league. Arguably, because opposing quarterbacks are afraid to put him to the test.
The ground game looks to be solid also, with a good stable of running backs.
Their head coach is a guy Al Davis is supposed to like, and who also believes in what he is doing.
Passing game should be better. Russell suffered from injuries last year, so count that as a rookie year and Jeff Garcia will be breathing down his neck to make Russell better.
Special teams has been built up and has one of the most dangerous punt returners in football.
Is this a sleeper team for 2009?

[bassproracing1]

That was my prediction in the bold prediction tread... 9-7 record will be enough to win the division for the Raiders and end all of the talks on ESPN of how great the Texans are going to be.

[kkfan91]

no they still stink

[Gotham Dark Knight]

Bring back Jeff George...that's the answer...

Actually I would like to see McFadden do well this year out there.

I still think they blew their 1st round pick on a Receiver that is a bit of a project this year.

[azrael492]

As long as Russell is the QB, they will be awful

[Bette]

I think this is a sleeper team.
The worst thing I have heard about Russell is his questionable work ethic and offseason conditioning.
Enter Jeff Garcia.
If Russell doesnt step it up, he knows perfectly well his job is in serious jepoardy.
WR is a question mark. They have second year Schiliens and third year Higgins. Javon Walker would like to prove he still an elite receiver and of course there are a couple of rookies.
Defense looks good, Greg Ellis isnt a slouch and he should be a good addition.
Remember Russell has the makings of a good running game to back him and his young receivers up.
Cable has had former Raider greats like Jerry Rice advising the young team and how to make it in the NFL.
Dont count them out. I like them better than the Texans.

[kkfan91]

I like the Texans or the Chargers before the Raiders

[kenman923]

Originally Posted by Gotham Dark Knight

Bring back Jeff George...that's the answer...

Actually I would like to see McFadden do well this year out there.

I still think they blew their 1st round pick on a Receiver that is a bit of a project this year.

While we are at it, bring in Buddy Ryan to be the head coach. He's the perfect Raiders coach.

[titangirl311]

Yes, I think the Raiders will turn the corner in 2009 - only it will be headed into their "black hole"

I think their fans are really the ones who have turned most of us against the Raiders.

They are the most inconsiderate-obnoxious fans I have ever seen.

You would think the Raiders were Superbowl Champs, Division winners, and the next politicians for California. What reason do they really have to act the way they have, and still do???????

[Bette]

Funny isnt it? At the beginning of the season it looked like they might turn the corner.
And the Texans are about to challenge the Colts for the AFC South.
It isnt just the fans. Al Davis isnt exactly lovable.