Just Prime Time Baby
They may have been dreadful last season, however, through sheer luck or because of the hated rivalry, the Oakland Raiders open the 2008 season on Prime Time television.
Come September 8, the Silver and Black will take on AFC West Rival Denver in Oakland as part of Monday Night Football's season-opening doubleheader.
The matchup is part of ESPN and the NFL's plan to showcase some of the seasoned rivalries in football and it gives both Bronco and Raider fans a preview of what to expect for the rest of the season.
Not only that, but NFL fans in general get a chance to see if the Raiders have improved or if they will once again become the laughing stock of the league.
Oakland is surely looking to put forth a better performance than in 2006, the last time they were given the opportunity to show the world what they were all about. There's a plus side for the Raiders on this one folks. They can't do much worse. That year, the Silver and Black were left Black and Blue as the Chargers -- another AFC West foe -- dismantled Oakland en route to a 27-0 victory. Ouch.
However, if you're not inclined to watch the game from the comforts of your own home, a local bar or restaurant, here's a couple of reasons why you should tune in:
1. Newly acquired wide receiver Javon Walker will be amped to show Denver will miss his abilities. After being released in favor of up-and-comer Brandon Marshall, Walker wants to show the Broncos -- and perhaps the rest of the league -- he's still got it. Add to the equation Walker will probably draw Broncos corner back Champ Bailey -- one of the best cover corners in the business -- he's going to have to be at his best anyhow. That is, if he's healthy.
2. Second-year quarterback JaMarcus Russell will be eager to prove he was worthy of the No. 1 overall selection in last year's draft. Finally receiving tutelage in his first full training camp, Russell should be ready to lead the Raiders into battle.
3. The No. 4 overall pick in the 2008 NFL draft. Whomever Al Davis decides to select -- be it running back Darren McFadden, DE Vernon Gholston, DT's Sedrick Ellis or Glenn Dorsey -- the former collegiate stud will become an instant starter for Oakland and it will be interesting to see if the prospect turns into an NFL stud or a bust.
4. Broncos head coach Mike Shanahan vs. Raiders owner Al Davis. The feud between these two has been as equally as good as the teams' games on the field. Since being fired by Davis, Shanahan has made life living hell for the Raiders and their figure head. Don't expect the hatred to lessen as Shanahan will have his Broncos extremely prepared for the Black Hole.
5. Bronco wide receiver Brandon Marshall vs. DeAngelo Hall/Nnamdi Asomugha. Denver's young and extremely talented wide out going up against either Hall or Asomugha will be a sight to behold. Marshall, a big, speedy and sure-handed WR is out to prove Denver indeed had no use for Walker. On the opposite side, Hall will want to prove he is indeed a top 5 cover corner, while Asomugha wants to build his resume as a shutdown corner.
The most important reason of all perhaps:
Football is back baby. Sit back and enjoy!