Oakland Raider Analysis: The Raiders rushing attack is their key to victory

August 22, 2:11 AMOakland Raiders ExaminerPatrick Patterson

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O'Neal, McFadden, Bush, and Fargas receive instruction
from coach Tom Rathman

The one thing that the Raiders offense did consistently well last season was running the ball. The Raiders dumped under-utilized back Dominic Rhodes and chronic malcontent LaMont Jordan and added the most explosive player in the draft in the person of Darren McFadden.

The Raiders embraced the zone-blocking, one-cut scheme last season, and it saved the careers of center Jake Grove and left guard Robert Gallery. They will be opening holes for a dangerous trio of backs in returning starter Justin Fargas, McFadden, and second-year player Michael Bush.

Fargas rushed for his first career thousand-yard season last year, despite only starting seven games, staring out the season behind Jordan on the depth chart, and missing the last two games with an injury. His reckless running style has earned him the nickname "Crash Test Dummy," as he runs with aggression, ending his runs by taking a defender for another yard or two. In addition to his skills as a running back, he has also impressed his team with his work ethic, as he won the commitment to excellence award last season.

Michael Bush was injured early in the season year before last while he was at Louisville. This injury cost him the entire season last year, but he has looked strong in his preseason appearances. He has been running like a bull, breaking tackles and taking defenders for a ride. He is expected to be used in short yardage and goal line situations.

Darren McFadden is the crown jewel of the Raiders offseason treasure haul. McFadden will bring an explosive big play ability to the Raiders backfield that has not been seen at the very least since Napolean Kaufman. He will rotate with Fargas and bring the home run threat, as well as be a receiver out of the backfield. 

These three have different strengths, and should complement one another nicely and bring a balanced rushing attack that other teams will have to fear. The relentless attack of Fargas, the brama bull of Michael Bush, and the blazing speed of McFadden.  Look for the Raiders to run early and run often, wearing down opposing defenses.  If they are successful there, look for them to also win games.