Tuesday, Nov. 4
There are three teams who have a worst point differential this season than the Raiders, who have been outscored by 82 points in eight games.
Oakland nearly upset New England, which looks real impressive now considering the Patriots' five game winning streak, and hung in against Seattle on the road this past Sunday losing by six points.
But it's not too early to say the Raiders are on the clock. They will have the No. 1 draft pick by virtue of becoming just the second 0-16 team in NFL history following the 2008 Detroit Lions.
The Raiders are playing more professional since interim coach Tony Sparano replaced Dennis Allen four games ago. Since then, the Raiders have lost by an average of seven points a game. Oakland had lost by an average of 13 points per game during its first four games.
Unfortunately for the Raiders six of their final eight games are tough starting with being double-digit home underdogs to Denver this week. The Raiders then have to travel to San Diego next week followed by a home game against Kansas City. The Chargers and Chiefs each have winning records.
Oakland's best opportunity comes in Week 13 with a road game against St. Louis. Still, the Rams will be favored in that matchup. Then the Raiders host San Francisco followed by a road game against the Chiefs.
The Raiders host the Bills in Week 16. Buffalo could be contending for a playoff spot. The Raiders then play their final game at the Broncos in Week 17.
Maybe the Raiders could defeat the Bills, or get lucky and have the Broncos resting Peyton Manning if they don't need a victory during the final week of the regular season.
But from here, I don't see a Raiders victory on the horizon. Do you?
On the handicapping front, my best play on the Tuesday card is in the NBA where I have cashed 10 of my last 11 plays going back to the championship series. My NBA/College Basketball combo season package is now available at a special early-bird price through Thursday. It can be found here along with my NBA play: /pregamepros/pro-bettor/bettor.aspx?id=7746#capper.
As always, no bad luck!