As the Oakland Raiders enter the final week of their training camp at the Napa Valley Marriott there are numerous storylines that are being monitored.
3rd running back:
Much of the focus has been on the free for all at the fullback position, but possibly more intriguing is the one on one battle between veterans Rock Cartwright and Michael Bennett for the third running back position. Head Coach Tom Cable had previously said that only one of the two would brak camp with the team, giving it a winner take all subplot. Both Bennett and Cartwight have responded by making the most of their individual talents and fighing to a draw. Bennett has been the better of the two as a runner from scrimmage, whilst Cartwright has proven his value on special teams. This will be a key battle to keep an eye on for the next two games. Both of them are doing their damnedest to stay in the NFL. It may come down to first mistake loses.
The center of everything:
Samson Satele had some rough moments in each of the first two games before he left the Bears game with an ankle injury. Chris Morris entered the game and promptly botched the first snap. Morris is best suited as a reserve swing guard/center and is not one that should be starting at center. Cable has experimented with Jared Veldheer at center. He still has a way to go before he would be ready to step in at center.
Return of Raiders returners:
Rock Cartwright had by far the best Raiders’ return play of the preseason against the Bears. Shaun Bodiford’s muff of a punt against the Dallas Cowboys was the worst. Johnnie Lee Higgins, Nick Miller, and Yamon Figurs have all had attempts at returns, but have not been impressive. There are still two games for for one of the players to grab the job and make it their own.
NOTES:
TFDS in conjunction with TiqIq has launched a new service called Darkside Tickets whereupon you can find the best deals on the net in Raider tickets.
The Oakland Raiders have partnered with ACE to create special ticket packages combining the Raiders home opener with rail service from the Centeral Valley to the game. For more information click here.
SEE ALSO:
- Veterans could be in trouble
- Introducing Dark Side Tickets
- Schilens may need surgery
- Javon Walker rejoins Favre
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