Oakland Raiders look like a playoff team this year

Dec 28, 2014; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos defensive tackle Terrance Knighton (98) is pushed to the turf by Oakland Raiders guard Gabe Jackson (66) in the first quarter at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

O-line

Run-blocking is something the Raiders haven’t done well since 2011 and the problem leaked into this year. That’s another thing Del Rio has fixed to show how much more physical they are this year. Right tackle Austin Howard is playing much better this year after being back to right tackle from right guard, where he was horrible last year.

Recently acquired right guard, Ja’Marcus Webb has been serviceable at right guard since coming over. But from center to left tackle is the star-studded portion of the Raiders offensive line. Center Rodney Hudson, left guard Gabe Jackson and left tackle Donald Penn are the best players on that unit.

Size-wise, they average 6’5″, 328 pounds and they are a very athletic group as well. And with offensive line coach Mike Tice coaching them, they appear to have solve the running game woes they’ve had the last few years. They just rushed for 128 yards on a 4.7 yards per carry average on the New York Jets, who coming in, gave up 64 yards per game.

Next: Protecting the passer