Camp Battles to Watch for the Raiders

Darren McFadden v Michael Bush

This is a very important battle for the offense. McFadden needs to become the stud that they drafted, he has the ability to be a Top 10 RB in the league. If Bush wins the starting job, I see McFadden becoming a weapon like Reggie Bush, used all over the field and a threat, but not the star.

Sleeper…Michael Bennett. Steady player, if Bush gets the start, do not be suprised Bennett shares the carries with him and even the goal line attempts.

Tyvon Branch v Mike Mitchell v Michael Huff v Hiram Eugene

Only 2 will start of these interchangeable safeties, but will any of them capitalize on a possible stronger rush by the D line and get turnovers?

Sleeper…loser of the Chris Johnson and Stanford Routt CB battle. Don’t pass on the thought that whoever is the backup CB may still be better than the safeties.

Chaz Schilens v Louis Murphy v Darrius Heyward-Bey

All 3 have received offseason buzz and will receive plenty of opportunities in 3 WR sets. 2 of them need to become studs to complement Zach Miller and McFadden out of the backfield.

Sleeper…Jacoby Ford. He will be given shots in the return game, he could be the deep threat if Heyward-Bey has another bad year.

Mario Henderson v Jared Veldheer

If Veldheer has a great camp, expect him to win this job. After many tries to fill this position, Veldheer seems to be the long-term answer. If Henderson wins the job, it does not bode well for line protection.

Sleeper…None. That is why it would have made sense for the Raiders to go after Jared Gaither. He would have been a great pick up and allowed them to move Veldheer to RT.

Bruce Gradkowski v Jason Campbell

Campbell will win the job, he provides the accuracy and deep throws that are needed for this offense. Do not, though, sleep on Gradkowski. While he has had an unspectacular career, he did win over the locker room and they will fight for him. If Campbell struggles, Gradkowski will be given the shot.

Sleeper…Kyle Boller. Only because his gorgeous wife, Carrie Prejean, would then be more often at the game and TV!!!

Tags: darren mcfadden, image, kyle boller, locker room, reggie bush

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