The Raiders defeated the Cowboys last night, 17-9. Jason Campbell started in his first game for Oakland, racking up more playing time than any other starting QB this preseason.
Apparently, he needs it.
Campbell looked rusty and unsure of himself, going 7 of 13 for 49 yards.
There are a lot of excuses being made for Campbell (and they’re all valid):
— He was facing the Cowboys starters for most of his time on the field.
— It was his first action with a new team and there are always growing pains; Donovan McNabb, who took over the Redskins this year, isn’t looking so hot himself, and he’s hearing about it from the fans.
–He’s running an offense new to not only him, but the team, making the mistakes of his teammates look like his own: his first pass was dropped by Darius Heyward-Bey, who didn’t make a catch the entire night.
The saddest part about Jason’s debut? The offensive line looked a lot like the one he left in Washington – terrible. The Raiders running backs didn’t look much better.
The former Tigers making their defensive debut for Oakland, however, fared well; Quentin Groves had two tackles and an assist, and Walt McFadden picked up a tackle in spot duty. The Raider defense held the Cowboys to only 66 yards rushing.
I want JC to show up the flippin’ Skins so badly! Disappointed in his debut … but I’m hoping the fans out there give him a chance. Also it’s so GREAT to see him in the silver and black!
Geez, it was his first freakin’ pre-season game with a new team and a new offense, people.