The Silver and Black sail into Houston this week for a tough match-up with the Texans.
The contest will hinge on two points- (1) whether Raider’s starting QB Terrelle Pryor is well enough to remain mobile in the pocket/backfield so he can execute the offensive game plan; and (2) if the NFL’s #1-rated Texan defense can penetrate the Raider’s offensive line to prevent #1 from happening.
Pryor was selected by the Raiders in the third round of the 2011 Supplemental Draft and was offered a four year contract. He eventually saw action in 2012 after the injury of then starting quarterback Carson Palmer. Now halfway through the 2013 season he holds a 2-2 record as a starter. These next few games will be critical for Pryor. Injuries are to be expected. Those who remain and go on to lengthy careers in the game learn to play despite not being 100 percent. Back-up quarterback Matt McGloin is Pryor’s apparent successor. When asked about McGloin’s progress to date, Coach Allen responded, “I think he’s got a better grasp of what we’re doing offensively. He’s continued to improve his decision making. He’s continued to improve his accuracy and those are really things that you have to have as a quarterback is being able to throw the football. I think he’s continued to improve as he’s gotten a better feel for what we’re doing offensively.” So we anticipate a passing-heavy game this week. The Raider’s offensive line will be focused on protection rather than making holes for the running backs. Much will be expected from the Raider’s defensive unit against the #9-ranked Texans offense.
