The Opposition’s Depth Chart: Oakland Raiders

This season the Miami Dolphins have to prosper.  Beating Oakland is a necessity, especially after the loss to Kansas City.  If Miami want to become perennial playoff contenders, Oakland is one of those teams they must beat.

Lets take a quick look at the opposition's depth chart: -

Offense

Many would be forgiven in thinking that Matt Schaub would be the starting quarterback in Oakland.  Instead, Derek Carr became the first quarterback in Raiders history to start the first game as a rookie.  So far, Carr has impressed and looks a steal in the second round.  While not averaging great yardage per play, he has a solid completion rate and has found the end zone.  Unfortunately for Carr, he doesn't have a stable of playmakers.  While still effective, Maurice Jones Drew is aging and James Jones should not be relied upon as the best wide receiver. Rod Streater was carted off the field with a fractured foot on Sunday, and will be a big loss.  On the plus side, Carr has a good offensive line.  Rookie Gabe Jackson in particular is showing a shrewd pick in last year's draft.

Defense

Despite the team's struggles, the rookies on defense have also shown they can play in the NFL.  Khalil Mack is showing why the team used a first round draft pick on him, ranking as one of the best 3-4 outside linebackers at this point.  He has a bright future.  For the rest of the defense, there are no surprises.  Veteran DE's Justin Tuck and LaMarr Woodley arrived over the summer to anchor a revamped defensive line, while Tarell Brown and Carlos Rogers occupy the starting corner positions.  Charles Woodson and one of Usama Young and Jonathan Dowling will handle the backfield responsibilities at safety, after the injury to Tyvon Branch over the weekend (also a fractured foot).

Special Teams

TJ Carrie has become the starting punt returner, while Latavious Murray has taken on the  kick returning duty.  Veteran Sebastian Janikowski returns as the kicker, while Marquette King slots in as the punter.

Alex Parish is an Associate Editor at The Phinsider. Be sure to follow me on Twitter @AlexParish89.