OAKLAND RAIDERS (7-5) at GREEN BAY PACKERS (12-0)
Sunday, 4:15 P.M., CBS, Direct TV (705), Sirius (Oak 94, GB 86)
Why Watch
This is a battle of division leaders, but the only reason to watch is to see if Green Bay can extend the streak. I think not.
What To Watch
The Packers have clinched the division. We don’t think they will rest their players, but human nature is not to be ignored. Packer players are bound to relax a smidgen, enough to give the Raiders their chance.
The Raiders are tied for the lead for the AFC West, but they are being eclipsed by the Tebow Broncos. They flew to Miami and tripped over the lowly Dolphins. Their best skill players, Darren McFadden, Jacoby ford and Denarius Moore are OUT when they fly to the Frozen Tundra for a December game with the Packers. There is no reason to expect a Raiders’ win. This game is all about the Packers.
Like the Raiders, the Packers list five players, including LB Desmond Bishop and RB James Starks, as OUT. QB Aaron Rodgers gets all the press, but do not overlook the Packers defense. Although they rank near the bottom in yardage, Green Bay leads the league in interceptions. Carson Palmer has thrown nine since signing with the Raiders. Beating the Raiders looks too easy for the Pack. That’s when upsets happen. Green Bay is favored by 12.
Who Will Win
The Raiders have trap team written all over them. OAKLAND