September 7, 2008
Key matchups for the Denver Broncos at Oakland Raiders: Thoughts from a Reader's Side
That infamous denizen of the Dark Side, L Dizzle, has emerged from the Black Hole to share his thoughts on the key match-ups for the game on Sunday. He looks at the little games within the game that make the difference between a win and loss.
Raiders and Broncos key matchups
By L Dizzle
Special to Thoughts from the Dark Side
Despite their differences, the Raiders and Broncos have a lot in common. Both Qbs have something to prove, both teams are thin at receiver, both employ the zone blocking scheme, both teams boast a top notch secondary, and both teams struggled last year in stopping the run. However, the Broncos went into the draft with an entirely different approach. They drafted an Offensive Tackle in the 1st round and a Wide Receiver in the 2nd round. The Raiders, obviously went with a Running back in the 1st and traded for a Corner in the 2nd round. The Broncos were not very active in the Free Agent market while the Raiders had one of their busiest offseasons ever. The Broncos most important acquisition was insulin. Here are some matchups to watch for this week:
DT Tommy Kelly vs. LG Ben Hamilton
Tommy Kelly may have gotten a huge payday this offseason but in the 3rd and most important preseason game against the Titans, he played with the passion of an undrafted free agent trying to make this squad. If he can maintain that intensity, it will be a long day for Hamilton trying to keep him out of the backfield and out of the running lanes. On the other hand, if Hamilton controls him on the block then the Raiders thin defensive line will be on the field all day and be worn out by the end of the 3rd quarter. Kelly is really the key to keeping the Broncos from wearing down the Raiders defense and running the ball down their throats near the end of the game.
CB Stanford Routt vs. WR Brandon Stokley
It may be safe to say that the Broncos will not be trying too many long pass plays in this game. The Broncos first choice is to run the ball but after that it will be dink and dunk first downs to move the ball down the field and control the clock. They know that is where their best shot to win this game lies. Keary Colbert will line up opposite Eddie Royal as the starters with Brandon Marshall being suspended which means that Stokley will be playing in the slot; the same role in which he had so much success in Indianapolis for so many years. If Routt can keep the ball out of the hands of the slot receiver, the Broncos' only chance will be on the ground. The Raiders' defensive priority is to make the Broncos' offense one dimensional. Routt is the X-factor in this.
WR Javon Walker vs. CB Champ Bailey
No one questions Javon's passion to show the Broncos that they made a mistake in letting him go. The questions tend to be "Is he completely healthy?", "Is he in shape?" and "Has he got enough practice time in the Raiders offense to be crisp in his routes and get open?". Bailey knows Javon pretty well after having spent two seasons playing opposite him in practice so if Javon has any weaknesses, tendencies or bad habits, Bailey would be the first to exploit them. They will be battling it out on every play to see who wants it more and who is capable of getting it. All Javon would need is one or two of Bailey's signature gambles and he could take it to the house. Whether or not Javon and Russell can be on the same page and take advantage of such a gamble is the real question here. They should be a lot of fun to watch...providing Walker is completely healthy.
LT Kwame Harris vs. DE Elvis Dumervil
Harris has not looked very good this offseason. He has been decent in opening lanes but terrible in pass protection. Despite the fact that the Raiders are said to be a "run first, run second, run third" team, that means nothing without the threat of the pass. If Kwame Harris cannot protect JaMarcus Russell's blind side, the Raiders receivers will never be able to get open. The Broncos would also feel no need to drop back the Safeties knowing that Russell will have no time to throw anyway which will not only cut off the middle of the field for short passes, but also kill any chance of breaking off any substantial runs. The third, negative to this would be having to keep Zach Miller on the line to help block. Zach Miller has been the most consistent and reliable receiver for Russell and taking him out of the passing game would seriously stunt the Raiders ability to move downfield.
HC Lane Kiffin vs. HC Mike Shanahan
In Kiffin's first meeting with Shanahan last year, it came down to the very end. At which point Shanahan pulled a veteran move by calling for a time out just before the snap of the field goal that would have won the game for the Raiders. And despite everyone in the Raider Nation watching it split the uprights, it never happened. And we all know what happened next so we will move on. Then the next week Kiffin showed he was a quick study by doing the same thing to the Browns. Then the Raiders blocked the ensuing kick to take the game. Shanahan is the longest tenured coaches in the league so there is no doubt he has Kiffin hands down with experience. The questions will be just how well Kiffin has prepared this team for this game and if he has learned more than just how to call a last second time out from Shanahan. Kiffin has essentially a first year QB and Kiffin is new enough to be unpredictable (when he doesn't tell the media what his gameplan is). For anyone who has ever watched the World Series of Poker, you notice that the young guys always frustrate the older players because they take risks that the veterans would never take and are unconventional in their approach. There will be a grand scale poker game going on between these two. Shanahan has the experience but can he call Kiffin's bluff?
I'm all in.
LDizzle is a regular contributor to Thoughts from the Dark Side.
Discussion
21 Comments on "Key matchups for the Denver Broncos at Oakland Raiders: Thoughts from a Reader's Side"
#2
Posted by mikeinny, September 7, 2008 3:34 AM
ok so so heres' the deal 1 more time!! the "ryandefense" is gonna get " SCORCHED" like he always does in these games
, oak needs to be + 2 or better on to's to win this game !!!
oaks' offense will roll between the
20's with ease !!!
they mite even break the 200 yard rushing plateau , but so can / will denver ! it is simple oak needs to be up by 14pts in 2nd qtr in order to win !!
what happens here is that oaks' front 4 is gonna get beat up by denvers front 5 vs run,( what we saw vs zona , dallas, looked like denvr was gettin ready for oaks' def ) they do a quik double on kelly w/ lg &ctr, then lg shoots out to seal off rite side,
they double warren with rog & rot ! , rot then shoots out to seal off 1st lbr he sees, the te & or fb can then singly block the "ACHILLES / WEAK SPOT " on oaks front 4 #56 burgess ! the back has 1 simple job , " RUN TO OPEN" this will be the case 20 +times mon nite !! vs ryans' sham of a run defense!!!
then when cutler wants to throw he will have 8-9 seconds of "uncontested " time, scanning the field for any of his 3 wideouts ,
oaks talent laden back 7 cant cover for 7+ seconds
*( not even hayes/haynes/deon can ) so we mite see 1 sack maybe 2 by oak but that is misleading !
so in summation , it looks like oaks only way to win is get up early , create a few turnovers ! and hold on late for win !!! either way i see 27-20 by the winner !!!
oaks' def mite come out & play the game of their lives monday nite!!!! but it wont be the standard !!!
denvers' d is far improved, they got rid of their version of "robryan" in bates, after 1 bad season .
they now use their ends as they should ! they also put 2 BIG WIDE BODIES in both tackle spots !! they got dj @ wolbr where he belongs !!! so they are now balanced !!! but they aint ready for that JUGGERNAUT raider run game !!! they will get beat up bad !! 34+atts for 160yds !!if they win !!!
if denver looses they raider run number mite just go as high as 240 yards on ground!!! so this will be interesting!!! regardless denver has 2 adavantages !! better def coach !!!! and better play called in shanahn over kiffin !!! if kiff just keeps his nose out oak will do bette converting 3rd downs & red zone possesons !!!
kelly is gonna be doubled and will be a "non factor " , warren is gonna get doubled
#3
Posted by Raider Blues, September 7, 2008 8:13 AM
By the same token Diz Javon knows Bailey's tendencies. I think Walker will be ok or Al should just let him go.
#4
Posted by darkknight, September 7, 2008 8:38 AM
What concerns me, is that while we've seemingly made many acquistions/trades to build this team, many of our new guys are retreads. I hate to say it, but I think the signing of Javon Walker was an embarrasement. I mean, Al had to talk him out of retriring. His heart is no longer in it, and they who do we bring in, none other than long time bust, Ashlie Lelie? We trade our star WR last year. It's like our new players are all Denver retreads, calisle, warren, walker, lelie. There's a reason these guys are no longer part of the Broncos....right? IT's because they're no longer good player.s Denver, on the other hand makes small, yet strategic moves in terms of players. However, what they did well was to rescheme the Dfense. They're going back to the old Bronco defense, the onewe saw in preseason and which allowed only 3.6 yds/carry. #7 in the NFL. They killed Arizona with they're 2nd and 3rd stringers. The same team that beat us senseless in our house. They added a new SAM-LB, they moved DJ back to the "Will" position, added D-robertson, and added Calvin Lowry/Marlon McCree as well.
It's the change of Dfensive philolosphy and those small but strategic moves that makes me nervous. I mean a 7-9 team basically adds a few NON superstart vets, a bunch of rookies, changes their schemes. I dont get it, but it makes me nervous. Anyone else feel the same?
#5
Posted by pat. T, September 7, 2008 2:20 PM
"kelly is gonna be doubled and will be a “non factor ” , warren is gonna get doubled"
Ok mikeinny if its true what your saying that means Derrick Burgess & company should be in Cutler's face all day..
GO RAIDERS!!!!!!
#6
Posted by jefferson cornwallace, September 7, 2008 3:13 PM
I'm a hardcore raiders fan, and I know for a fact we're going to get womped by Jay Cutler and the Broncos.
#7
Posted by Ian, September 7, 2008 4:31 PM
This should be a close game, Im not even going to make a prediction, but either team could win this
#8
Posted by Broncos Guy, September 7, 2008 5:10 PM
I am a Broncos fan and am super excited for this game. Both teams have made enough off season moves that I am unsure who will win, or who has the advantage. I think any team who assumed the Raiders will be the same team this year as last year, will be in for a surprise from you guys.
The biggest question I see for the Raiders this year is Jamarcus Russell. Is he as good as the hype? Was he worth the #1 draft pick? So far, I don't see it.
One thing is sure, the old Raider Bronco rivalry is on the way back up and I for one, and excited to see it. Good luck this season in every game you play that is not against the Broncos. :)
#9
Posted by LDizzle, September 7, 2008 5:25 PM
Jefferson you are no "hardcore fan". It would be one thing if the Raiders were clearly outmatched but they aren't. Fans at least give their own team the benefit of the doubt. Something you didn't do. Keep rootin for them donkeys jefferson cuz we don't want ya.
Mikeinny if you spoke English instead of some sort of retard code, I might actually read your comment. And apparently, as pat T pointed out, you think the Broncos can play with 13 men on offense so they can double both of our DTs. Looks like your code speak saved me from wasting my time reading your nonsense.
#10
Posted by Desertraider, September 7, 2008 5:39 PM
As a longtime member of the nation I have suffered my share of abuse. Going 2-14, getting destroyed in the superbowl year after year we seem to give the haters something to hang their hat on. I take it like a man because we did get destroyed in the superbowl, we did go 2-14 and 4-12. However as a diehard, I have never known "for a fact that we are going to get womped." I don't care who they are line 'em up and blow the whistle. It's Silver and Black all day every day... Mr Cornwallace you might want to go hang on a site dedicated to the team you actually support.
#11
Posted by Desertraider, September 7, 2008 5:50 PM
Broncos Guy
I respect you for stepping up and giving an honest assesment of our team. I personally think we are one WR and monter DT away from being a dominant team. However I can not wish your team luck since we are in the same division.
#14
Posted by raidermomo64, September 7, 2008 10:56 PM
LDizzle that was awesome, you're column and the way you put that so called die hard raider fan. Give me a break. When it comes to tough times. I sure as hell don't hope that you will back me up. The Raiders will win this one 31-17. Reasons being.... 1. 3 RB's are awesome. 2. TE is a pro bowler. There is no LB or CB that can handle him. Our QB is 6'6" 270lbs. strong, mobile, cannon for an arm. DE is awesome and i do mean burgess. LB's 2/3 are probowlers. all four DB's could be pro bowlers. Kelly will be a monster, watch him. Walker and Lelie have something to prove. Our WR's & DT's don't have to be great, just adequate. O line, if they can protect a little, then that will be alot. Our RB's and TE will be the differance in the game. Go RAiders!! 10-6
#16
Posted by UK Raider, September 8, 2008 2:22 AM
Liked the match ups Dizz and I think the last one of the two coaches will settle this game. Both coaches will have exactly the same game plans for this one. First establish the run and then stop the other team running it. If either team can establish that over the other the game is theirs. What will be interesting to see is what Kiff' will do if he cant achieve it. We have all seen how basic the O has been so far. Whats in our Plan B? If we cant run consistently are we going to see a bit more variety? Mis-direction, play fakes, reverses, screens, or even a halfback option? Over to you Coach..... (not you Elkins!)
#17
Posted by TXraider, September 8, 2008 6:25 AM
I think one key matchup is not mentioned. That would be DE Burgess vs ROOKIE T Ryan Clady. Cutler's blindside protection. Burgess got to be licking his chops right now. =b
#18
Posted by Your Niner Reality Check, September 8, 2008 10:04 AM
WTF??? No wonder this board is so slow. You’re reduced to posting this drivel?
Talk about a say nothing post? Yes, yes, I know. Lady Ditzle is the board clown, the Motley Fool, the one you like to “laugh” at, and pat on the head and say “oh.uh…yeah, good one” but this is even below that.
Now, according to the resident shit for brains,, IF Kelly beats Hamilton, it will be a long day for Hamilton, however, if Hamilton beats Kelly, it will be a long day for Kelly??
Wow.
What a revelation.
Routtt vs. Stokley: IF ROUTT CAN KEEP THE BALL OUT OF THE HANDS OF THE SLOT RECEIVER, the Broncos ONLY chance will be on the ground??
WTF?? You do have shit for brains, don’t you? So…the WHOLE passing game is depended on the slot receiver, and Routt?? That’s it? No other options?
You’re an idiot.
Walker vs. Bailey: Motley Fool: IF Walker is “healthy”, “in shape” and “has enough practice time in order to be crisp”??? Geez…you’ve been taking waffle lessons from Bobbo, haven’t you? In other words, you’re already making excuses for his sorryass.
So, IF Walker does well, it’s on him, BUT IF HE DOESN’T, it’s not that he was outplayed, it was “not healthy, not in shape, not enough practice”???
So far you haven’t said a single thing that isn’t basic “stating the obvious”. Makes you look stupid. Makes this board look weak for posting this crap.
Harris vs. Dumervil: LMFAO. In other words, you’re already detailing yet another reason the Raiders very well could/might/probably will lose…HARRIS SUCKS.
Motley fool: “Harris hasn’t been very good” “Run first means nothing without passing” “Harris can’t protect blind side, receivers won’t get open” “Bronco’s will stack the box” “Team has to keep someone back to help block”
It’s NOT JUST THAT I’VE BEEN SAYING THIS ALL ALONG, it’s the fact you posted it as if it’s actually a match up.
You WILL keep someone back to help, you have no choice. You WILL see Russell rolling out to his right, because he knows his blindside is open.
Not doing well here…let’s see if you can state just ONE thing that isn’t “DUH quality”?
Kiffin vs Shanahan: again, LMFAO…that wasn’t just sad, that was stupid.
Motley Fool: “Did Kiffin learn more than just calling a time out?”
WTF??
And that weak ass poker comparison? Lame is going to “take risks” and will Shanahan call his bluff”????
Made zero sense, like this whole thread.
I’m embarrassed for you.
And this board.
Now, Ditzle, pay attention.
Your ONLY REPLY to me is centered around ‘Well, the Niners lost” and “I don’t want to reply, because I’d rather my intelligence, or lack there of be kept in total suspense, instead of you continuing to prove that which confuses me. You’re a hater. You scare me. I refuse to EVER attempt to take you on again. I’m still licking my wounds the last time I thought I could hang.”
Better yet, Ditzle, just state “What you said”, and make it easy on yourself.
I’ll say it AGAIN…Kwame Harris is going to be the reason Russell goes on IR.
Hell, let me help this say nothing thread, and post something that will indicate Lame isn’t completely Lame.
He might…just MIGHT realize Harris’s best position on the team is his ass shining the bench, which will prolong the life of Russell.
See??? Told you I’m here to help.
You’re welcome.
49er God: But YOU may call me Mr. Mike
#19
Posted by LDizzle, September 8, 2008 11:04 AM
TX Raider: Burgess lines up on the right side and Clady on the left. So they won't be facing each other directly. It will be Jay Richardson and Trevor Scott that line up against Clady.
#20
Posted by TXraider, September 8, 2008 1:34 PM
While that is true Ldizzle. The raiders stated this offseason they wanted to move Burgess around to exploit key matchups. Tonight would be a good opportunity to show Burgess dominance.
#21
Posted by Your Niner Reality Check, September 8, 2008 1:53 PM
Good boy, Ditzle.
I like it when you do as you're told.
You're not as stupid as you look, contrary to popular belief.
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