Raiders Super Duper Win!

Oakland Raiders tight end Zach Miller, top, jumps in the arms of teammate JaMarcus Russell after Miller's 86-yard touchdown reception against the Philadelphia Eagles in the first quarter of an NFL football game in Oakland, Calif., Sunday, Oct. 18, 2009. (AP Photo/Paul Sakuma)

It was a loud and proud day at the Oakland Coliseum for the Raiders today as they knocked the Philadelphia Eagles the freak out in a 13-9 win. The place was ecstatic with the surprise play of the Oakland Defense, as well as the improved offensive output.

We fans didn't realize that what we were witnessing was one of the greatest team efforts in a young Raiders team since their dominating loss to the Chargers in the Monday Night opener. QB JaMarcus Russell had some questionable moments in his accuracy and decision making, but showed improvement in his foot work, avoiding the pressure and gaminess to win. JaMarcus had a signature run on one play where he faked out a defender with a spin move for positive yardage, a play that set a fire under the offense.

The Defense? 6 sacks of QB Donovan McNabb and an interception returned for a touchdown that was questionably called back. The Oakland Raider defense gets my game ball for their unrelenting pressure. They gave up some big plays but always seemed to hold when it mattered. Many Eagle offensive series were interrupted for player injury, an indication of the hard hitting Raider "D." The Raiders were hitting hard and made a huge physical statement early and often.

RB Gary Russell played fullback as Justin Fargas took over lead running back duties for an injured Darren McFadden. The combination worked very well. Gary Russell caught 5 passes for 55 yards out of the backfield, none bigger than his final catch and run for a first down that iced the game. Fargas was back to his usual batterramming self with 23 rushes for 87 yards. Michael Bush also played a role in the return-to-glory rushing attack that was key to resting the defense.

Tight End Zack Miller had the lone touchdown for the Raiders but believe me when I say it was one of the biggest plays I've witnessed at the Coliseum ever. Zack caught a 16 yard pass then ran 70 yards for the touchdown thanks to an outstanding blocking effort by WR Louis Murphy. Catch the play on NFL highlights if you get a chance, it should be there.

An all around team effort. The play calling improved, the special teams held, the offensive line protected and the running backs found daylight to keep the offense on the field. And it must be acknowledged, the coaches coached.

The Eagles came into today's game with the second ranked offense in the NFL averaging 32 points. The Raiders limited them to three field goals and no points in the 3rd quarter. The Raiders did their homework and played a scheme for 60 minutes that proved they can win when executing plays.

GOT DEFENSE?

JaMarcus Russell's improved stats in today's win:

17 of 28 for 224 yds 1 touchdown 2 interceptions