Kickoff 2010: Let The Good Times Roll

The 2010 regular season is upon us, and I'm excited to see Raiders turn the corner and return to being a force in the AFC West and beyond.

I am cautiously optimistic and naturally impatient after so many false starts that have resulted in 11 or more losses every season since today's kindergarteners were in the womb.

The Raiders did a nice job of positioning themselves for improvement in 2010. They maintained continuity at the top of the coaching ranks, while adding to the offensive equation with the appointment of Hue Jackson as offensive coordinator. They dispatched JaMarcus Russell and replaced him with Jason Campbell, resulting in a huge swing in the character department at the most important position. They drafted with purpose and reinforced the linebacking corps in an concerted effort to (finally) stop the run. For a second straight year, they resisted the temptation to bring in (or trade for) high-risk, low-character players.

In other words, we are witnessing some much-needed stability taking root and, hopefully, bearing fruit.

That said, areas of concern remain. For me, the main areas of concern are offensive line, the deep side of the defense opposite Nnamdi, and the wide receiving corps (I might include run defense, but I've got to think--or hope--that serious strides have been made on that front).

Stanford Routt, entering his sixth season, won the starting CB role over Chris Johnson. To say that the jury's out on Routt would be an understatment. As for the offensive line, well, let's just say that I'm glad we have some real depth at quarterback with Gradkowski, because Campell is already nursing some wounds.

The topic of wide receiver has been a hot one here at Raiders Take. I can't, for the life of me, understand the resistance toward acquiring a pair of sure veteran hands to shore up the ranks.
With Schilens ailing, our head coach actually mentioned Yamon Figurs (three career catches in four years) as a viable #3 receiver. Nick Miller? Jacoby Ford? Johnnie Lee Higgins? Step right up, ye unproven masses.

In that context, why wouldn't we want to see guy like Greg Camarillo or T.J. Houshmanzadah brought on board? I just don't understand the organizational complacency with regard to adding cost-effective depth to any position, let alone a position that has been a weak spot for several years running.

Remember, a dropped ball by DHB cost us a game last year. Drops were a problem in the recent preseason as well. Now, it's not inconceivable that eight or nine wins could win the division this year (eight was enough in 2008, right?). Connect the dots, and it's easy to see how our divisional fate could literally rest in the hands of our receiving corps.

Yes, the Raiders have taught me well when it comes to borrowing trouble. But right now, the slate is clean. The scent of football is in the autumn air. The trees are shaking and quivering and quaking. A new season is upon us, and hopefully a new era, too. I have my doubts, but I am putting them to rest. It's up to the Raiders not to re-awaken them.

Bring on the Titans, and (finally) let the good times roll.