With breathless anticipation, the season draws closer. The Raiders head east to battle the Titans. Usually, first games compare the first rounds in boxing. While the chances for excitement exist, usually the cautious approach takes hold. Yet, Jack Del Rio does not strike anyone as the practical type. Below are the nine points to observe during the game.

Lynch’s Carries

In years past, Marshawn Lynch operated as a workhorse, carrying the ball 20-25 times. Now, the Raiders, behind that mammoth offensive line can afford to spell him more often. Under those circumstances, DeAndre Washington and Jalen Richard should receive roughly 12-15 combined carries. In spite of his gambling reputation, Del Rio knows that playoff carries are more important. Consider Lynch as a 14-17 carry back. Hopefully, he’ll average almost five yards per carry.

David Amerson

Granted, the Titans receivers may not present a formidable challenge for the Raiders. Yet, the corner spot remain an enigma. David Amerson is the key to that unit. With Sean Smith struggling and facing legal issues, Amerson becomes the leader on the outside. Provided that Gareon Conley can seamlessly slide into the nickel, the Raiders will control Davis and Decker. The Titans possess some size at receiver, but lack the deep speed to change games.

Defensive Tackle

According to the depth chart, Ellis and Vanderdoes will start. However, many eyes hope to see Treyvon Hester. During the preseason, Hester flashed a quick first step and the ability to disrupt the passing game. If Ellis can return to his peak form, those three allow Oakland to actually wear down the offensive interior. Plus, facing a dominant rushing team means they will be busy all day.

Marquel Lee

Somehow, the Raiders coaches immediately felt like rookie linebacker Marquel would fill the void in the middle. As a result, they did not pursue another middle linebacker. In order for Lee to keep his job, he must fill gaps with conviction, knowing that Tennessee plans on targeting him immediately.

Norton Adjustments

After an offseason of fans and media questioning his future, defensive coordinator Ken Norton returns to helm the defense. At the same time, critics eagerly await t

Raiders DC Ken Norton More

o see how he changes the defense during the game. Whether Norton can make adjustments from quarter to quarter remains a mystery. In addition, John Pagano waits in the wings to serve as a natural bridge. If the Titans control the clock with run-heavy drives, Norton must alter the gameplan in a hurry.

The Raiders enter this game as a prohibitive favorite. Then again, concerns regarding the stability of the defense remain. How they handle the Titans offense should dictate the pace.