Oakland Raiders 2016 Season Preview

(photo credit: justblogbaby.com)

The Oakland Raiders only finished with a 7-9 record last year, but everyone could tell that the team was set up for long-term success. After defeating the eventual Super Bowl champion Denver Broncos towards the end of the season, the Raiders picked up a signature victory, and it was a sign that the Raiders could compete with top-tier teams in the AFC West. Oakland has a very favorable schedule to open the season, as seven of the eight games they will play will be against teams that failed to make the playoffs last season. 

However, the back-end of their schedule will be a challenge for the young Raiders, as they’ll face the Broncos twice, and they’ll also face the Carolina Panthers, who lost in Super Bowl 50 last year. Also, they’ll take on the Houston Texans at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. All-around, Oakland arguably has one of the best offenses in all of the AFC. Quarterback Derek Carr built off a strong rookie season last year, as he threw for 3,987 yards and 32 touchdowns, while throwing only 13 interceptions. 

Carr’s performance earned him his first Pro Bowl appearance in his career. Carr was very successful last year because of the weapons that are all around him. Running back Latavius Murray had a career year, as he was the third leading rusher in the NFL last season. Murray rushed for 1,066 yards and six touchdowns, while only fumbling the ball three times. Second year wide receiver Amari Cooper had a stellar rookie season last year. Cooper caught 72 passes for 1,070 yards and six touchdowns, which earned him Pro Bowl honors. 

What’s scary about this Raiders team is that offense isn’t even their true strength. What makes the Raiders an intriguing playoff pick is their youth and athleticism on defense. When you mention the Raiders defense, you must mention defensive end Khalil Mack. Mack compiled 57 tackles, 15 sacks, and two forced fumbles last season. Oakland significantly improved their defense in the offseason, as they brought in Seattle Seahawks linebacker Bruce Irvin, while also drastically improving their secondary. Oakland signed cornerback Sean Smith from the Chiefs, and he’ll likely be the starting cornerback along with David Amerson. 

With legendary safety Charles Woodson retiring, Oakland signed Cincinnati Bengals safety Reggie Nelson, and they drafted Karl Joseph out of West Virginia to strengthen their secondary. Troubled linebacker Aldon Smith is eligible to apply for reinstatement to the NFL after being suspended for a year, but it is unclear at the moment whether or not he’ll be able to play at all. With a favorable schedule, a budding superstar at quarterback, and a frightening defense, the Raiders have the talent to make the playoffs for the first time in 13 seasons.