Kansas City Chiefs: 2016 NFL Preview And Predictions
By Ben Almquist
Oakland Raiders: 7-9 in 2015 (3rd in AFC West)
It has been 14 years since the Oakland Raiders posted a winning record. Many pundits are predicting that this will be the year the Raiders break that streak of futility. Some analysts are going so far as to say the Raiders will win the division. That would be quite a turnaround for Oakland. It will be an interesting scenario to watch play out as the big news around the Raiders involves a possible move to Las Vegas. On the field, this team has assembled a very talented group of young players to build its future around. The question will be whether the future is now, or still a ways to come. The AFC doesn’t look to be too overwhelming, and a Wild Card spot is not out of the realm of possibilities for the Raiders. This is an excellent chance for Oakland to break the worst streak in the NFL.
BA: “The Raiders have definitely rebuilt their franchise. They are close to becoming playoff contenders, but until they break that 9-7 barrier I am not putting them in the upper echelon. Look to 2017 as the first year Oakland is truly competitive for the playoffs”
Prediction: 9-7 (2nd in AFC West)
CL: “The Raiders have a lot of young talent on both sides of the football. The addition of Sean Smith will help Oakland’s pass defense but it might not be good enough as a whole to help the Raiders make the playoffs this season.”
Prediction: 9-7 (3rd in AFC West)
JW: “The Raiders have a talented group offensively and an excellent core of young defenders. The test will be if their overall team depth is up to the task of surviving the long brutal NFL season. What happens if any of their starters fall to injuries? Will the Raiders be able to recover?”
Prediction: 9-7 (2nd in AFC West)
Next: San Diego Chargers