Oakland Raiders 2014 Schedule: Ranking the most anticipated games

#8.Houston (Week 2)

Quality of Opponent 

Houston’s quality will be determined at the draft as they hold the number one pick after everything went wrong for them last year, but for now they should be considered as non-contenders based on their last place finish in 2013 even if they had everything go wrong for them. With a new coach in Bill O’ Brien it will most likely be a true rebuilding year for the Texans next year.

Rivalry 

None, other than the fact that this is the Matt Schaub Redemption Game.

Location, Location, Location 

Home opener and the “Schaub Bowl” with new Raiders starting QB Matt Schaub making his home debut against his former team gives this game high marks for narratives leading up to the season and Week 2.

Chance of Victory (Extremely Early Prognosis) 

Matt Schaub and the Raiders need to win this game, that being said JJ Watt and the Texans defense could be a lot better than they were in 2013. Houston were one of the few teams that Oakland beat last year in Matt McGloin’s sole win under center for the Raiders last year so the recent history gives them the slight edge in this matchup even though it should be noted roster overhaul was done on both of these rebuilding teams.

Game Quality Ratings (Out of 10)

Quality of Opponent: 5

Rivalry: 10 (Matt Schaub Bowl Bonus Points) 

Location, Location, Location: 10

Chance of Victory: 8

Overall Game Quality: 33