Johnnie Lee Higgins waits for the punt that he returned for a TD/ Photo by Patrick A. Patterson
The San Francisco 49ers took the field in Oakland to face the Oakland Raiders, but t hey seemed to have left their run defense on the other side of the Bay Bridge. The Raiders practially ran at will, with Justin Fargas, Darren McFadden, and Michael Bush all having a strong start to their preseason. Expected fourth running back Louis Rankin helped seal the Raiders 18-6 vicotry with a 72 yard run that set up the Raiders field goal in the fourth quarter.
Johnnie Lee Higgins opened the scoring for the Oakland Raiders by returning a punt for a touchdown. Higgins is fighting for a spot on the team, so winning the return job is something that will be key to him even making the team.
The Raiders second touchdown came on a drive that was powered by Michael Bush. He ran the ball. He caught the ball. He fought his way into the endzone on a short yardage play. He is showing that he is healthy and ready to do some damage for the Silver and Black.
Raider Lines question answered for a day
The biggest question marks of the offseason and training camp thus far has centered around the offensive and defensive lines. The offensive lines proved one thing, they could run block. The Raiders were able to run the ball practically at will. They weren't tested much in the passing game, as it seemed like almost every play was on the ground. The Raiders gave up a couple sacks including one where Marques Tuiasosopo slipped as he was coming out from under center.
The defensive line did their job, as the 49ers were not able to get much offense generated. The defense only allowed two field goals, and did not let the Niners into the end zone. The Niners peeled off a few big plays, but those happened well after the starters were on the sidelines.
Turnovers
The Raiders lost no turnovers against the 49ers, but they got two interceptions and a fumble recovery. Considering that forcing trunovers has been a weakness with the Raiders for several years, this is a positive sign for the coming season. Stanford Routt and Hiram Eugene both picked off Niner quarterbacks.
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