Oakland Raiders now ready for the tough part of schedule

Oct 4, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; Oakland Raiders quarterback Derek Carr (4) throws a pass against the Chicago Bears during the second half at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports

Expected offensive stars 

We know that Murray, Cooper and Walford are going to learn to pay more attention to the little things. They got a taste of how any one of those little things could have been the difference in the game. All three are going to be stars by the end of this year if not sooner so we can enjoy the ride there.

They all will be able to shine because the Raiders have a great offensive line. After an off year in 2013 before coming to the Raiders in free agency, left tackle Donald Penn played well in Oakland in 2014, and has 2015 on a high level as one of only six tackle that haven’t allowed a sack or quarterback hit yet. Raiders 2014 3rd-round left guard Gabe Jackson and 2015 free agent center Rodney Hudson are playing well too.

Those players have opened up holes for Murray and allowed quarterback Derek Carr to make that jump to Year 2. At the quarter-mark of the season, he has a 97.7 quarterback rating with seven TD passes. He should have his second 4th-quarter comeback/game winning drive this season, but too much time was left on the clock last Sunday.

Then there’s receiver Michael Crabtree, who has made some outstanding catches to sustain drives. And when you’re so concerned with the other playmakers, Marcell Reece will hit you with a big play. All of the players the Raiders were expecting and depending on to play well on offensive this year are playing well, even if the unit settled for field goals a bit too often during the second half in Chicago.

Next: Expected defensive stars