Prognostication Pulse

by Rich Langford on Oct 1, 2010 3:59 AM PDT

Raiderdamus is going to have a hell of a time following up last week's perfect prediction. At least I think he is and for our team's sake, let's hope he is.

That's right, it is not looking good, my friends. My advice: Hedge your happiness with money and take the Texans -5, for Raiderdamus does not forsee joy in Oaktown.

Raiderdamus has emerged from his cave of black magic visions, battered, breathless, hungry and still tripping to tell us what he has seen.

There is a thick fog rolling into the Bay Area that is blocking my vision... it is hard to see this week. There is so much uncertainty.

Both the Raiders and Texans are coming off losses last week. The Cowboys really demolished the Texans, which bodes well for the Raiders, but the Raiders do not have the defense nor the quarterback play that the Cowboys do so how much it will actually benefit us remains to be seen. The Texans will have the usual things to exploit- special teams, run defense and Raider mistakes. Not a whole lot new to be learned from the Cardinal game that couldn't have been seen from last season or the first two weeks of this one.

The difference is, Matt Schaub is REALLY good. Even with Nnamdi covering Andre Johnson, Schaub will carve up the Raider D. Johnson will, like Fitz did last week, catch one and only one TD. Kevin Walter may catch another. The tight end corps will catch a lot of short routes over the middle and may break a couple for big gains.

I see Arian Foster scoring a TD, but I don't see him breaking any big runs nor so I see him gaining more than 80 yards.

The Raiders will have a pretty good day offensively, with McFadden gaining over 100 and scoring a TD. He will also catch three passes. Louis Murphy will catch five, and also score a TD. Miller will catch two, one of which is another TD. The special teams will make a costly turnover late in the game. Janikowski will be flawless, however.

The Raiders will play very well against an upper echelon team, bu will be unable to overcome costly penalties and at least one heartbreaking turnover that will ruin our momentum. Texans win, 41-27.

Damus Jr has yet to share his visions. I can only assume that he is so overwrought by the burden of his gift that he has gone completely mental. If he recovers, I shall post his score. As always his position is tenuous and the closest prediction shall unseat him.

Special Alert: Lil' Dam has emerged from the depths of the future and psychosis to bring us his pick. It appears our seers are once again at odds, for Jr brings us good news.

My pick is Oakland in a hard fought game. The red zone issues for Oakland are not completely fixed however I have seen this team is improved overall. If this was last year Oakland would have kept it close and Houston would eventually pull away and play keep away using the run game to finish them off. However this is the 2010, not 2009. Oakland still gets around eight penalties but that’s better than ten or eleven a game. Also Houston is getting a lot of criticism for their lack of a pass rush and passing yards allowed overall but the name of the game is turnovers. Gradkowski is the starting quarterback this year and he seemed to hold himself accountable for much of the loss. See that’s the difference this year. He will bounce back. He may throw one pick but that’s it. The game will not come down to the Texans poor pass defense but it will come down to their light defensive front. Oakland will use a balanced attack to keep Houston honest. McFadden may not break for over 100 yards rushing but will in total offense. Also Oakland’s defense will finally start confusing Schaub leading to many overthrows as he is susceptible to do and cause him to hold onto the ball too long. I predict a close game with last week’s goat coming back and finishing off the upset in overtime. Oakland bounces back for a huge upset 23-20.

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This week's predictions ...

Raiderdamus … nothing but praise for your uncanny ability to see what’s coming. But, as much as I do bow to your wisdom, very much hope that you are wrong about this week’s game outcome. Would really love to see the Raiders have a breakout game on both sides of the ball. The team definitely has the talent to beat any team any given week, and I truly hope that they show that ability this week. GO RAIDERS!!!

by VJH5404 on Oct 1, 2010 5:22 AM PDT reply actions

Spin the wheel make a deal

I am seeing a 20 smashing of our team unfortunately. I see our LBs getting raped by short passes and our safetys will pull up to help underneath and we shall get toasted deep outside of Nnamdi. Our run D will most likely give up 110 yards total due to being afraid of Schlob and his arm. We will be unable to exploit the LT position on Houston.
As for the O well I hope McBroken keeps the trend on the field and continues with the 180 degree turn around from last season. Grad will have another good game but because of our swiss cheese O line and piss poor situational adjustments to our opposition defense he shall come up short of a win. DuHB will catch 2 and drop 3 catchable passes. Murphy will be his usual standard of pretty fucking good but be unable to carry the load.
Janomisski will go 2 for 3 of FGA missing a 43 yarder and hit our 2 extra points.
We will lose the battle of the turnovers once again and be a minus 2.

Never underestimate the predictability of stupidity.

by TheLyleAlzadoPunch on Oct 1, 2010 5:22 AM PDT reply actions

I appreciate your ability to be objective but...

Geeeze… Atleast say we win by 1 or something? Or lose a close one, fluff it up for the nation or something…

In this case and only in this case, that I really hope your wrong and should be called Raiderdumass btw.

And at -5, I believe the raiders are a good bargain because the texans are 6-11 ATS.

Jamarcuskowski will not be the deciding factor as the Nation will honor the life of G.Blanda with…. Wait for it. Legendary victory.

Raiders win 26-20

aka GOLDENBOYWARRIOR

by gogomaplata on Oct 1, 2010 6:25 AM PDT via mobile reply actions

Ok nice to predict

but for the most part I would say we are all some what positive with a whole bunch reality shooting through or drinking glasses. Why would someone just blatantly say will win just to satisfy your urges or desires.
If your right I will………………………. have another drink and if I am right……………. well………………….. I will have another bunch of drinks.

Never underestimate the predictability of stupidity.

by TheLyleAlzadoPunch on Oct 1, 2010 6:43 AM PDT up reply actions

Raiders win 26-20

aka GOLDENBOYWARRIOR

by gogomaplata on Oct 1, 2010 7:07 AM PDT up reply actions

I can't predict a Raiders loss, because I only see why they'll win

The D-line dominates getting 3 sacks and slows down Foster to a reasonable 4 ypc. The Raiders get two 50+ yard scores and the combo of DMC and Bush wears them down late.

Raiders 24
Texans 20

My profile pic is a Todd Marinovich painting.

by Rich Langford on Oct 1, 2010 6:34 AM PDT reply actions

same old shyt year after

I love my raiders but I see theme losing because they have no ol Mario suck the center is weak up front rg is old and to slow and yes Mario also cost use this game we had 3rd and 1 and his dumb ass false start I hate I have Sunday ticket year after year I spend 50 bucks to see the same old sorry as no heart ass team I am starting to hate the raiders I can’t take it no more my blood pressure is to high dealing with this sorry as team I hope they get they ass kicked good

by memphis t on Oct 1, 2010 10:13 AM PDT via mobile up reply actions

Nnamdi said otherwise

They aim at winning all their home games, at least.

by Spirals galore on Oct 1, 2010 7:21 PM PDT up reply actions

Please put your scores in bold to make it easier to review.

My profile pic is a Todd Marinovich painting.

by Rich Langford on Oct 1, 2010 6:34 AM PDT reply actions

Just sent my pick.

I notice it does look a lot like you’re referring to the assistant as Dumbass Jr. HAHA

Cowards die many times before their deaths
The valiant never taste of death but once.
WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE, Julius Caesar

by TAW on Oct 1, 2010 6:42 AM PDT reply actions

Or Damn us

My profile pic is a Todd Marinovich painting.

by Rich Langford on Oct 1, 2010 6:43 AM PDT up reply actions

Like noontide said, I just can’t predict a Raider loss. I’m a fan, and am always holding out hope for the best. Plus, aren’t the Raiders notorius for blowing a predicted win one week, then upsetting a powerhouse team the next?

Raiders 24
Texans 17

When the power of love overcomes the love of power, the world will know peace.

by JaKe. on Oct 1, 2010 7:14 AM PDT reply actions

Don't see how it adds up to 41 witth Foster, Walker and Johnson each scoring 1 TD - even with 2 field goals that leaves

2 unaccounted TDs … unless it’s against our kick/punt STs or off picks/fumbles or combination.

S-O-B: ITS HOW I ROLL, DEAL WITH IT.

by Sons-of-Blanda on Oct 1, 2010 7:15 AM PDT reply actions

In true Damus style there is the element of vague

to throw off those who may wish to do seers harm…like the casino’s. Interpreting I would say they they are coming from TE’s.

My profile pic is a Todd Marinovich painting.

by Rich Langford on Oct 1, 2010 8:08 AM PDT up reply actions

Dont forget the Nation playing a factor

aka GOLDENBOYWARRIOR

by gogomaplata on Oct 1, 2010 7:36 AM PDT reply actions

Grad picks the Texan secondary apart like a lion tearing meat from the antelope - in big and small chunks

We give up points in the usual way, fluke long runs x 1, blown safety coverage x 2, and STs
Raiders triumph at the end with a field goal, 34- 31

S-O-B: ITS HOW I ROLL, DEAL WITH IT.

by Sons-of-Blanda on Oct 1, 2010 7:36 AM PDT reply actions

The Texans return game shouldn't be too much of a worry.

Theirs is as boring as ours is. We should worry once we get into the thick of the schedule, particularly KC and McCluster.

Cowards die many times before their deaths
The valiant never taste of death but once.
WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE, Julius Caesar

by TAW on Oct 1, 2010 10:13 AM PDT up reply actions

Why put off worrying until tomorrow?

S-O-B: ITS HOW I ROLL, DEAL WITH IT.

by Sons-of-Blanda on Oct 1, 2010 11:16 AM PDT up reply actions

As much as I want to....

….I cannot objectively pick the Raiders to win.

I can, however, subjectively pick them to win.

Raiders 34
Texans 31

GO RAIDERS!!!

by TexasRaider20 on Oct 1, 2010 7:52 AM PDT reply actions

Don't overlook Houston's weaknesses

In addition to their weak secondary, the Texans had to replace their LT (who got suspended). This means, that if Schaub intends to take 5 and 7 step drops in an effort to complete longer passes downfield, then he will be susceptible to getting sacked this Sunday. For this reason, we would be wise to blitz more frequently, and put added pressure on the opposing QB.

by Il guapo on Oct 1, 2010 8:24 AM PDT reply actions

Raiders 27 Houston 24

LaMarr Houston steals the show and knocks Schaub OUT

It is all about coming together as a team. At the end of the day, the team is all we have. - T. Branch 10-14-09

by Raymond St. Martin (Saint) on Oct 1, 2010 8:28 AM PDT reply actions

Houston will not be able to stop Houston!

My profile pic is a Todd Marinovich painting.

by Rich Langford on Oct 1, 2010 8:53 AM PDT up reply actions

picking up some of that Raiderdamus ambiguity?

S-O-B: ITS HOW I ROLL, DEAL WITH IT.

by Sons-of-Blanda on Oct 1, 2010 11:19 AM PDT up reply actions

Wait, it's getting clearer...for me, so more vague for everyone else

The young lion will overcome the older one,
On the field of combat in a single battle;
He will pierce his eyes through a silver and black cage,
Two wounds made one, then he delivers a cruel death.

My profile pic is a Todd Marinovich painting.

by Rich Langford on Oct 1, 2010 1:10 PM PDT up reply actions

who gets the cruel death?

Reminds me of the prophecies in Herodotus’ histories…

by Spirals galore on Oct 1, 2010 7:23 PM PDT up reply actions

The Houston that is not a person ;)

I can’t lie though, it is almost a verbatim copy of Nostradamus prediction of Louis the ??? death by duel. Or so they say at least.

My profile pic is a Todd Marinovich painting.

by Rich Langford on Oct 1, 2010 8:46 PM PDT up reply actions

Raiders-17 texans-10

BG- 16/30 226 yds 2 td
dmac- 23 carries 105 yds 3 rec 23 yds
Murphy- 6 rec 97 yds 2 td

schaub- 23/46 312 yds 2 int
foster- 25 carries 78 yds 1 td
Johnson- 3 rec 12 yds

by 3XSBCHAMPS.OAK. on Oct 1, 2010 8:34 AM PDT via mobile reply actions

I hope I am wrong but

This thread reminds me of the Superfans predicting Bears 247, Giants negative 3.

I stand by my prediction, but as I said the fog in the Bay is thick and I could be wrong. I love the Raiders and it pains me to see their defeat in my visions. Ditka.

These are my principles. If you don't like them, I have others. -Groucho Marx

by RDreamer on Oct 1, 2010 8:53 AM PDT reply actions

28-14

Not sure who wins, but a 2 TD difference regardless

" Only build on positives , don't stack the negatives...Instead of criticizing , what was a positive?" - Donavin Darius

‎"There is nothing like a wise phrase or quote to help convince others that your decision makes sense." - Anon

"If you're ever in a fair fight, then your tactics suck." ಠ_ಠ

by dubzfan on Oct 1, 2010 9:09 AM PDT reply actions

I doubt Johnson will be a huge factor in this game.

Not only is he a game time decision (sprained ankle) but you guys have played very good pass defense in terms of YPG, so even if he does play I can’t see him having huge numbers against your secondary. I’m sitting Johnson in fantasy this week.

Also, I think you guys are forgetting Houston has the worst pass defense in the league over the first 3 games, in terms of YPG, so a couple big connections from Grad to Murphy (if he’s healthy) could keep this one a lot closer than a lot of you guys think.

Please don't read my signature.

by SoCalBoltFan on Oct 1, 2010 11:27 AM PDT reply actions

We haven't forgotten but thanks for the analysis Boltfan.

Cowards die many times before their deaths
The valiant never taste of death but once.
WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE, Julius Caesar

by TAW on Oct 1, 2010 11:35 AM PDT up reply actions

Raiders Win 27-30

I have Foster with 2 rushing TDs and Schuab to Walter with another and 2 FGs for the Texans. For the Raiders i have with 4 TD 1 to Murphy, 2 to Miller, and a run by McFadden. Plus a Jano FG early in the game. I think Bruce is going to have a great day thru the air with over 220 yards, McFadded will have 75-80 yards.

Side Note: I think DHB will have a good day with about 6 catches for 75 yards or more for key first downs and set ups for goal line plays.

by Ctb3 on Oct 1, 2010 12:15 PM PDT reply actions

DuHB has a better average of catching when the ball is thrown above head level so when he jumps its right on his numbers

S-O-B: ITS HOW I ROLL, DEAL WITH IT.

by Sons-of-Blanda on Oct 1, 2010 1:38 PM PDT up reply actions

+1

by Ctb3 on Oct 1, 2010 2:24 PM PDT up reply actions

he has a groin issue

Got it today, during practice.

by Spirals galore on Oct 1, 2010 7:24 PM PDT up reply actions

If DHB can't play then we are screwed, as Chaz is still out

With Murphy as our only legit wide receiver- he will be easy to cover, as JLH and Jacoby Ford can only be viewed as scrubs at this point. Also from the Arizona game it was like the OC was trying to be too tricky, running when it made more sense to pass and vice versa. If that pattern holds up against Houston we will be trying to run all day instead of passing.
If McFadden gets injured we are truly up shit creek, he is the difference maker this season.
Sorry but if we can’t get McFadden going then the passing game won’t work either,
Texans 21 Raiders 17

by Oceanside Raider on Oct 2, 2010 12:14 AM PDT up reply actions

Bush was easily our best RB last season and would pick it up should the worst occur. And I also believe that JLH

isn’t getting enough credit. His hands are far better than “the hands of Bey” and I want to see Nick play. I am a bit stunned, even mind boggled, at your appraisal of our being screwed without DuHB – I’d consider it a blessing, at this point.

S-O-B: ITS HOW I ROLL, DEAL WITH IT.

by Sons-of-Blanda on Oct 2, 2010 3:51 AM PDT up reply actions

Raiders 27 Texans 24

as long as we cut down the penalties, we will win this. penalties killed our drives last game, and we should have more scoring opportunities if we cut those downs.

I am confident in our defense as well.

I’ll take 11 players with heart on the field over 11 guys with just talent. Talent is fleeting, it goes away over time. Heart is what drives you to be better. To push yourself beyond what you think your capabilities are. To show us that when you strive, all things are possible.- SMP

These players, a lot of other people didn't believe in them, but they believe in themselves. And that is all that matters."- Bill Belichick

I'm also a Raider Fan dammit!!! RAIDER NATION!!!!

by patriotguy2 on Oct 1, 2010 1:53 PM PDT reply actions

Raiders take it on the chin, 31-20

Failure builds character; success reveals it

by signcut on Oct 1, 2010 8:56 PM PDT reply actions

Damn

That’s what I was going to say. God, I hope we’re wrong.

by rightnasty on Oct 1, 2010 11:26 PM PDT up reply actions

Raiders 21 Texans 14, if the safeties step up

A real test for the Raiders improved run defense. Raiders opponents have scored 3 rushing touchdowns and 6 passing touchdowns. The Raiders improved run defense has exposed their weakness in the secondary. The secondary is the next issue that needs to be addressed.

by Sbay on Oct 1, 2010 8:59 PM PDT reply actions