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| | Tuesday, August 8 Raiders: Will they be kicking themselves? | |||||||||||||||
| By Mark Cannizzaro Special to ESPN.com The Oakland Raiders haven't made the postseason in six seasons, yet there's optimism surrounding coach Jon Gruden and the team. The Raiders, who beat strong teams such as Minnesota and Buffalo on the road last year as well as beating Tampa Bay 45-0, believe they'll challenge for the AFC West title. "We've got the pieces in place," Gruden said. "Now it's time to get out on the field and prove ourselves."
No. 1 pick Sebastian Janikowski, the controversial Florida State kicker who's seemingly always in trouble off the field. The Raiders were ripped by many critics across the league for drafting the player so high in the first round (17th overall), but they believe they were only a good kicker away from being in the playoffs last year. Key position battle Will either Tyrone Wheatley or Napoleon Kaufman emerge as the top running back, or will they team up well like they did last year, combining for 1,650 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns? Both have been signed to multi-year deals, though Oakland would like one to step forward as a No. 1. Biggest adjustment Can the Raiders finally get over the hump despite good potential? If they don't, Al Davis will surely fire Gruden and the rebuilding process will again spin the carousel. Seven times since their last division title nine years ago, the Raiders have been mediocre in winning between seven to nine games. In 10 of the last 15 years since their last Super Bowl, the Raiders have finished either .500 or a game above or below. So the mediocrity must stop. Rookie report Janikowski is expected to solve the Raiders' kicking issues. So, too, is Texas A&M punter Shane Lechler, who was picked in the fifth round. West Virginia receiver Jerry Porter is raw, but has a great upside once he becomes more polished.
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