Opponent Preview: Oakland Raiders face Atlanta Falcons and Jacksonville Jaguars
The opponent preview of Oakland Raiders for the 2012 season continues as we cover the games to be played in week 6 and 7.
We have previously previewed the first four weeks of the season. Week five will be the bye week for Raiders.
After playing two tough and two relatively easy games, Raiders will be looking for a continuation of good form when they play the next two games.
Raiders will face a difficult opponent in Atlanta Falcons, while the game against Jacksonville Jaguars looks to be a comfortable one.
Week 6: Atlanta Falcons
Falcons have been getting attention during the last few seasons for having one of the most talented rosters. Now the time has come to prove their worth.
This season might not be the last chance for the current roster to win the title, but one must acknowledge that most of their good players have reached the peak age of their career.
When it comes to offence, Falcons have dynamic and fast wide receivers. They must throw more balls to them in order to go even further this season.
Raiders must stop those wide receivers from covering good amount of yards. On the other hand, Raiders’ offence needs to play a vital role in this game.
Falcons are not good at pass rushing and Raiders offence can utilise this advantage.
Last encounter between Raiders and Falcons took place in the 2008 season. It was a totally one-sided affair with Falcons winning 24-0.
Head-to-Head
Falcons and Raiders have played only 12 games versus each other. Raiders have won seven while Falcons have won five games.
Week 7: Jacksonville Jaguars
The Jaguars are really looking upbeat about this season after a miserable one in 2011. Last season they finished 5-11.
New coach Mike Mularkey is emphasising on strengthening the offence which is coming from a poor season.
The team have brought young wide receivers in order to give more support to their young and inexperienced quarterback.
Jaguars’ strong point will be their defence. It was ranked sixth in the league last regular season.
Raiders must not underestimate the defensive capabilities of Jaguars as they will be even more disciplined on their own back yard. Expect them to perform big this season.
Last time these two sides faced each other was in the 2010 season. Jaguars won that contest 38-31.
Head-to-Head
The two teams have faced each other for a mere five times. Jaguars have won four of them while Raiders have won only once.
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