The performance against the Bills showed that the Patriots where indeed mortal and that our offense had to score more points than our defense could allow (which reminds me of the Colts). With the Raiders there are two major obstacles: Darren McFadden and the Raider Mentality. We all know what McFadden can do to a defense when he's healthy and right now the Raider Mentality is not something to mess with.
Game Info:
- Played at the Oakland Coliseum, Oakland, California
- Starts at Sunday, October 2rd, 4:15 PM EST
- On CBS
Pats Injury Report:
- Leigh Bodden, groin
- Ras-I Dowling, hip
- Albert Haynesworth, back
- Aaron Hernandez, MCL sprain
- Sebastian Vollmer, back
- Mike Wright, concussion
Key Matchups:
- Denarius Moore vs Pats secondary
- With Dowling and Bodden out, it leaves McCourty, Arrington, and Antwaun Molden to cover Oakland's receiving threats highlighted by Moore
- Richard Seymour vs Pats o-line
- Seymour won't say it, but this game is the game he has been waiting for since the trade
- Darren McFadden vs Pats d-line
- McFadden is the NFL's leading rusher averaging 6.4 yards per carry with a total of 393 yards. Last Sunday against the Jets he had 171 yards, so its not just yards racked up against bad teams
Questions:
- Can the Patriots stop the Raider's running game?
- Will the Patriots run the ball efficiently?
- How many touches will Stevan Ridley get?
- Will Tom throw an interception?
- Will the Patriots start out in a 3-4 or a 4-3?
Predictions:
- The Raider's will come out like a rocket 1st half, but drop 2rd half
- Andre Carter will feast on Jason Campbell
- McFadden will hit at least two 40+ yard plays
- Tom Brady will not throw an interception
- Ochocinco will still suck
- Patriots 34, Raiders 28
This is an archived article originally published on
October 2, 2011.
Content reflects the editorial context of its original publication date.
More News Headlines:
Vrabel on Stefon Diggs: ‘I would never say no’ to a Patriots return
By: Ian LogueVrabel addresses the possibility of Stefon Diggs rejoining the Patriots, stating he'd 'never say no' despite a full wide receiver room.
2 hours ago
TRANSCRIPT: Mike Vrabel Press Conference 6/10
By: Ian LogueHere's the full transcript of what New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel had to say during his press conference on Wednesday, June 10th, 2026.
3 hours ago
Vrabel Details Drake Maye’s Critical Growth Areas for Year Three
By: Ian LogueHead coach Mike Vrabel offered an encouraging assessment of quarterback Drake Maye's development, highlighting significant growth in his ability to limit mistakes at the line…
6 hours ago
MORSE: Day One of Patriots Mini-Camp and Morse’s Morsels
By: Mark MorsePatriots Mini-Camp Day 1: Drake Maye impressed, Gabe Jacas missed due to injury, and Christian Gonzalez had a 'hold-in.' Boutte's trade rumors noted.
8 hours ago
Vrabel on Patriots Rookie Jacas: ‘He had a procedure, and he’s not under contract’
By: Ian LogueVrabel discusses Patriots rookie Gabe Jacas's absence, citing a procedure and his unsigned contract. The second-round pick's delayed start raises questions.
24 hours ago