Oakland Raiders Weakness Became a Strength in Playoff Clincher

Oakland Raiders: Weakness Became Strength in Playoff Clincher

Dec 18, 2016; San Diego, CA, USA; Oakland Raiders cornerback David Amerson (29) celebrates with strong safety T.J. Carrie (38) outside linebacker Bruce Irvin (51) and defensive tackle Darius Latham (75) after stopping San Diego Chargers wide receiver Tyrell Williams (16) short of a first down during the fourth quarter at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports /

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Oakland Raiders defensive tackle Mario Jr. Edwards (97) looks on from the bench during the third quarter against the San Diego Chargers at Qualcomm Stadium.

Oct 25, 2015; San Diego, CA, USA; Oakland Raiders defensive tackle Mario Jr. Edwards (97) looks on from the bench during the third quarter against the San Diego Chargers at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports /

Looking Ahead to the Playoffs

At the moment, we shouldn’t get carried away and compare this defense to Super Bowl winning units, but it’s on the upswing.

Furthermore, we’ve yet to see the unit at full strength. Joseph missed another game with a toe injury. Defensive end Mario Edwards Jr. should suit up next week against the Indianapolis Colts, per ESPN’s Adam Caplan. Commissioner Roger Goodell could potentially unleash pass-rusher Aldon Smith before the season ends.

If all three players mentioned above rejoin the team on fresh legs, we could see a defensive unit capable of keeping scores low, which takes tremendous pressure off the offense. Carr and co. won’t have to score 30-plus per game to win during the postseason.

Despite all the attention given to the offense, the defense has multiple game-finishing drives as closers as well. Situationally, Norton’s group continues to show up in crucial spots.

The 2016 Raiders team features more than a dynamic offense capable of erasing a double-digit deficit in the fourth quarter. As shown against bitter division rivals, Oakland can play bully ball with the running backs, which makes them viable in cold January temperatures. Moreover, Norton’s halftime adjustments give the team a chance at a comeback after a poor start.

Next: NFL Power Rankings for Week 16

As the old adage goes, defense wins championships. At some point in the playoffs, the Raiders will find themselves in a critical moment in need of a stop to keep their season alive. At the current state, with players potentially on the return, they’re certainly capable. Once looked at as a liability, the defense has slowly become reliable.

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