Oakland Raiders: The Week 1 Aftermath

September 13, 2015; Oakland, CA, USA; Cincinnati Bengals tight end Tyler Eifert (85) runs with the football against Oakland Raiders linebacker Curtis Lofton (50) during the first quarter at O.co Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports

The Raiders Must Limit The Big Play:

This is where the Raiders really struggled on defense. They had several defensive series where they gave up chances of yardage to the Bengals, both on the ground and in the air. Cincinnati recorded 6 big plays while on offense (a big play is defined as one that results in a gain of 20 yards or more). There where passes to A.J. Green and Tyler Eifert. There were big runs by Giovanni Bernard. Quarterback Andy Dalton seemed to be able to pick and choose what he wanted when he wanted it.

For the Raiders, it’s as simple as understanding that unless they start to put major pressure on opposing teams offensive lines, they will continue to struggle on defense. They got zero sacks Sunday and recorded 1 qb hit. That is not acceptable for any NFL front 7 on defense, especially one that recently added a pass rushing threat in Aldon Smith to complement Khalil Mack. If the Raiders want to win anytime soon, they better start wining at the line of scrimmage on defense.

Next: Raider Quarterbacks did not leave unscathed