No one is really putting much stock into Week 1 of preseason, but while the games are meaningless and coaches try to sort things out, it gives everyone a good chance to gauge where younger players are at before things get really serious in a months time.
On Monday night, Terrelle Pryor gave fans plenty to think about during a loss. A nine yard scramble for a first down, good. But the game ending interception with 40 seconds remaining on the clock, not so great.
Pryor’s efforts probably won’t be criticized heavily, but aside from that, everything else was pretty boring, and also ugly. The Cowboys held on to win by a field goal — the only time the scoreboard moved all four quarters. And amongst all of that high scoring, Carson Palmer made his first start in Oakland, only to throw an interception during the Raiders opening possession.
Just like the Cardinals two nights ago, it’s a trial and error process for coach Dennis Allen. Palmer may have looked awful today, and Pyror still has jitters, but Matt Leinart managed to pass for 98-yards and 11 completions, making it a real three way race.
Behind quarterback, the only enjoyable part of the Raiders night was Darren McFadden. He looked like he hadn’t stepped off the field since last season, and besides carrying the ball twice for 20-yards, he also threw in an 18-yard reception to keep fans pleased.
The Raiders offense has a lot to figure out before Week 1’s clash with the Chargers at home. The question now is, will three more preseason games really offer much insight into who is the most suitable quarterback for the job?
Other AFC West News
While the Chiefs still wait on Dwyane Bowe to show, the Chargers are having a dejavu week.
After struggling to sell 3,000 tickets to avoid a blackout during their home opener against Green Bay seven days ago, the Chargers now have twice the work load ahead of them when they face the Cowboys at home.
6,300 tickets need to be sold within the next 48 hours to avoid a blackout. Get those wallets open Charger fans.
