Oakland Raiders on the rise, but defense needs change

September 20, 2015; Oakland, CA, USA; Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Steve Smith (89) catches a pass against Oakland Raiders cornerback D.J. Hayden (25) and free safety Charles Woodson (24) during the third quarter at O.co Coliseum. The Raiders defeated the Ravens 37-33. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports

Encouraged by the Corners

Cornerback is a major concern as the Raiders decided to do ahead a roll with the youth movement. They all got lit up, giving up catches of over 20 yards but also made important plays in the game. T.J. Carrie had the first big play, forcing a fumble and a play that he had just given up a catch on.

The Raiders would turn that into a field goal and jump out to a 10-o lead early in the first quarter. D.J. Hayden defended a pass in the end-zone to save a touchdown and that four points was the difference in the game. And Neiko Thorpe iced the game with an interception with time winding down in the game.

It’s only fitting that the guy that was abused the worst is the guy that made the biggest play. Raiders fans should be encouraged by they saw from their young corners even though they are maligned. Especially Hayden, the most maligned of them all as the 2013 1st-round pick is finally looking for the ball.

Next: Murray Ready