Raiders-Chiefs Recap

Less than a week after being trounced by the Broncos, the Oakland Raiders rebounded to beat the Chiefs at Arrowhead 23-8. So what was the difference between Monday night and today? First off the obvious, the Raiders played the Chiefs. The Chiefs are clearly in rebuilding mode and are nowhere near the Broncos in talent at this time. The Chiefs also don't have the luxury of having an emerging franchise quarterback like Jay Cutler, in fact they have played a total of 4 quarterbacks in the first two games.

The Raiders running game dominated the Chiefs and set the tone for the entire game,the Raiders managed to grind out 300 yards on the ground with contributions coming from each of their backs. Leading the way was rookie running-back Darren McFadden, who rushed for 164 yards. Michael Bush added 90 and Justin Fargas had 43 before getting hurt. McFadden in particular was phenomenal, breaking a 50-yard run and later diving in for a touchdown to help put Oakland ahead 13-0. Bush also came on strong late in the game to help seal the game. Both McFadden and Bush scored their first NFL touchdowns. The Chiefs never had an answer for the trio of backs and the Red Sea was silenced.

The defense rebounded in a huge way and most of the credit for the defenses fine performance, should be directed towards the defensive line. The defensive front continually put pressure on the quarterback carousel of the Chiefs. The pressure on the quarterbacks led to two interceptions, six sacks, and a forced fumble. The defense also managed to shut them down on the ground, allowing only 55 yards to the Chiefs running game.

Sebastian Janikowski played possibly the best game of his career. He was perfect on three field goal attempts, including a franchise record 56-yarder. His play was key as Oakland’s offense moved the ball well but couldn’t punch it in early in the game. He also sent all six kickoffs into the end zone, only one of those were returned. The Raiders played an all-around good game. Jamarcus looked rough at times, but he didn't turn the ball over. Considering this is only his third start, there is not much more you could ask of him. The win moves Russell's record as a starter to 2-1.

To be honest games like this make me happy to be a Raiders fan. Especially considering the Raiders won more games in 2001-2002 (record of 21-11), then they have since 2003 (19-61 overall record not including 2008), it is hard for me to not get excited when they do manage to win a game. But the groin injury to Justin Fargas and the possibility of Lane Kiffin being fired make it difficult to enjoy their victory. Judging from what Lane said after the game, he is not ready to leave Oakland just yet.

“It means a lot. It just goes to show you that we can’t worry about things we can’t control. That’s the media and outside forces trying to tear us apart. I’m so proud of our guys, how they prepared and how focused they were. We kind of had the theme of assassins. We were going to come in here, get this thing and get on out."

I believe Lane has the ability bring the Raiders back, all he needs is time and a little support. That is not asking to much is it? So here's to hoping that Al Davis doesn't pull the trigger on Lane to early.

But for now, lets celebrate this one Raider Nation.