What does it mean The Raiders seemed eager to build off their first and so far only win and had hoped to create some late season momentum. Instead they came out got punched in the mouth and never got off the mat. This one was ugly in every facet and that s putting it lightly. This is the second worst shutout loss in franchise history (the Raiders were pummeled 55 0 by Houston on Sept. 9 1961) and it was easily the ugliest defeat of this season. There were the usual allotment of missed tackles and blown assignments and that was when things went well. The low point probably came when backup quarterback Matt Schaub came into the game in the fourth quarter and threw an interception that was returned for the game's final touchdown. Now it will be interesting to see if interim coach Tony Sparano can get his team to play with any sort of fervor over the final four weeks. At no point during the first 11 games did Oakland show any kind of quit but that has to be a major concern heading down the stretch after this one.
Stock watch down For the first time this season quarterback Derek Carr played like a rookie almost from start to finish. He was under a great deal of pressure from the Rams defense much of the day and couldn t get settled into any sort of rhythm with his receivers. A week after showing good poise while leading the Raiders on a lengthy game winning drive in the fourth quarter against the Chiefs Carr was clearly rattled by St. Louis aggressive defense. He threw two interceptions including one while he was being tackled and should have just taken the sack. Just a rough afternoon all the way around for the young quarterback.
Game ball Not really sure anyone deserves one this week but we ll go with defensive end Justin Tuck. Although he got beaten on Tavon Austin s end around touchdown run Tuck provided the few highlights Oakland had with a sack two tackles for loss and one pass defensed.
What s next Oakland limps home with a 1 11 record that is the worst in the NFL. Can it get worse Absolutely. The Raiders host San Francisco (7 5) next Sunday in a battle for bragging rights in the Bay Area. From an emotional standpoint this game means much more to the fans of both teams than it does for the players. From a practical standpoint the 49ers need a win to keep their dwindling playoff hopes alive. The Raiders aren't going anywhere in the postseason but clearly need whatever positive momentum they can get.
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