Game review
OFFENSE
Marcel Reece had 103 yards rushing and 90 receiving but the Raiders still had trouble getting on track. Carson Palmer threw two interceptions and didn’t get in a good flow, and Brandon Myers and Denarius Moore didn’t give him much of a hand. Right tackle Khalif Barnes played well in his return. But 10 points in three quarters against a bad defense is unacceptable.
DEFENSE
The Raiders put no pressure on Drew Brees and receivers were open for big plays. Blitzes didn’t work and safety Mike Mitchell struggled at times in his first start in place of injured Tyvone Branch. Middle linebacker Rolando McClain made some nice plays against the run early but the Saints finished with 153 yards on 5.5 yards a carry. And rookie outside linebacker Miles Burris’ recent struggles continued.
SPECIAL TEAMS
Travaris Cadet’s 75-yard kickoff return to start the second half was a big play, reminding the Raiders that their third-quarter problems have not been solved. Janikowski kicked a 40-yard field goal, marking his 49th straight field goal from 40 yards or less. Returner Phillip Adams didn’t fumble, at least.
COACHING
The halftime adjustments, or lack thereof, are becoming a bigger issue. The Raiders were outscored 14-3 in the third quarter Sunday and have had teams rout them 123-34 in the third quarter this season. The offense can’t score even with a running game, and the defense turned in a third straight miserable outing. Some players are even starting to question the scheme, which is the next step in a losing season. Because it can’t be all their fault.
OVERALL
Owner Mark Davis came down to talk to reporters after he met with his general manager and head coach, and he is concerned about how much worse the team has gotten in the past month. He also is wondering about the third-quarter domination by opponents. Davis did say that GM Reggie McKenzie (obviously) and Dennis Allen are safe for next year. But you have to figure offensive and defensive coordinators Greg Knapp and Jason Tarver better show some improvement the last six games.