Game Preview
Mike Krueger
Predicted Score: Raiders 21, Browns 17
Cleveland: I guess the Brady Quinn watch will go on for another week, huh? Coming off a 5-TD performance against the Bengals Derek Anderson will look to keep the momentum going on the road against the Raiders. Oakland's pass defense has given up some yardage this year (279 yds, 2 TDs per game) but keep in mind they have played against the pass-happy Lions. Expect Anderson to cool here and return to earth… it is the Browns after all. They really aren't that good, are they? TE Kellen Winlsow and WR Braylon Edwards are both coming off 100-yd receiving days and remain viable fantasy starters.
- Start: WR Braylon Edwards, TE Kellen Winslow
- Consider: RB Jamal Lewis QB Derek Anderson
- Sit: WR Joe Jurevicius
Oakland: QB Josh McCown started last week's game despite injuries to his finger and ankle and proceeded to stink up the joint throwing for 73 (yes, 73) and 3 picks. Surprisingly, the Raiders were in the game against Denver, but a well-timed timeout by Mike Shanahan froze K Sebastian Janikowski just enough, and eventually allowed Jason Elam to do his thing a few minutes later (stupid Denver). So, how long before we see see Daunte Culpepper? "Josh has got to be better, that's no secret, or he won't be our starting quarterback for long, especially at this pace," Kiffin said. Wow, talk about a vote of confidence… yikes. RB LaMont Jordan is having issues with his back this week, missing practice time, drawing the "we might not know until gametime" quote from the head coach. Monitor news later in the week to see if Jordan plays. If he sits, this would severely temper my enthusiasm for a close Raiders victory.
- Start: RB LaMont Jordan, WR Ronald Curry
- Consider: WR Jerry Porter, TE Zach Miller
- Sit: QB Josh McCown WR Travis Taylor