Raiders Rebuilding Takes Time

A SF Chronicle writer said it best when comparing the Oakland Raiders return to glory with the building of Rome; It'll take time.

"It'll take time to return to glory." 

Last night's 22-14 loss to the San Diego Chargers left us Raiders fans wondering just how long will it take to see our team play with the magic of those long gone glory days.  With a rocking coliseum crowd thumping to the pre-game show by Ice Cube. Followed by a two jet fly-over by Travis Air Force base pilots while Gene Simmons of Kiss sang the national anthem, the night couldn't have been more prepped for a Raiders return to greatness. But something weird happened after the Raiders opening drive, which was going so well, ended in rookie wide receiver Rod Streater's fumble. 

The Raiders offense became a one man show where everyone, including the Chargers, had a sense of where the ball was going.  Still, Raiders running back Darren McFadden was elusively productive in gaining yards, but not so in touchdowns.

Like the Raiders defense most of the evening, the Chargers became rock-solid in red zone defense, forcing field goals when touchdowns were needed.  If it hadn't been for a complete special teams collapse, the Raiders might've been able to pull out a defensive victory. But that is a pipe dream that rebuilding teams can only fantasize about.  Sure defense can win championships, but not when the other two units (offense & special teams) are struggling.  

Raiders QB Carson Palmer looked better than he did in preseason, but its obvious that he misses receiving targets Danarius Moore and Jacoby Ford.  If last night's loss is any indication of what the 2012 season holds for the Oakland Raiders, then we should be prayerful that the A's and Giants promising playoff push continues.

Win, Lose or Tie!

Invictus (latin for Unconquered)

by William E. Henley, 1849-1903

Out of the night that covers me,
Black as the pit from pole to pole,
I thank whatever gods may be
For my unconquerable soul.

In the fell clutch of circumstance

I have not winced nor cried aloud.

Under the bludgeonings of chance

My head is bloody, but unbowed.

Beyond this place of wrath and tears

Looms but the Horror of the shade,

And yet the menace of the years

Finds and shall find me unafraid.

It matters not how strait the gate,

How charged with punishments the scroll.

I am the master of my fate:

I am the captain of my soul.