Opener Observations

Raiders 23 - Donkeys 20It is too early in the 2011 NFL season to get a proper read on the Raiders. Here are a few observations from the opener on MNF vs. the Donkeys that was highly entertaining and sloppy.* Building A Bully - Run GameDarren McFadden pick*ed up where he left off from the 2010 campaign by rushing for 150 yards on 22 carries (6.8 avg.). Run DMC had 2 critical carries that led to 14 points. In the 2nd quarter, McFadden had a 20 yard run on 3-8 that led to the Raiders 1st TD. In the 4th quarter, #20 came up huge with a game altering 47 yard run to the Denver 1 yard line. His punishing, aggressive, explosive running style along with RB Michael Bush's downhill style is the foundation for building a bully. By establishing and sticking with the rushing attack, ranked #2 last year, the Raiders imposed their will and physicality upon the Donkos.* Making An Opponent 1 Dimensional - Rush DThe Raiders front 7 bottled up Denver's running attack, got a lead, and forc...