Preview and Prediction: Oakland Raiders at Tennessee Titans

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Nov 29, 2015; Nashville, TN, USA; Oakland Raiders outside linebacker Malcolm Smith (53) breaks up a pass intended for Tennessee Titans tight end Delanie Walker (82) during the second half at Nissan Stadium. Oakland won 24-21. Mandatory Credit: Jim Brown-USA TODAY Sports /

Delanie Walker to Walk All Over the Defense

Regardless of who ends up calling the plays or who starts on defense, the Raiders will struggle to contain Titans veteran tight end Delanie Walker.

Walker, now in his 11^th season in the NFL, brought in six receptions for 83 yards and a touchdown against a stingy Lions defense. He’s likely licking his chops in preparation for Oakland’s porous defense.

In their loss to the Falcons, the Raiders allowed Atlanta’s top two tight ends (veteran Jacob Tamme and rookie Austin Hooper) to combine for eight receptions for 159 yards and a touchdown.

In response to their abysmal defensive performances in weeks one and two, Raiders head coach Jack Del Rio and defensive coordinator Ken Norton Jr. have elected to make some personnel changes on the defensive side of the ball.

Rookie linebacker Cory James will replace second-year linebacker Ben Heeney on the inside, and 2016 first-round pick Karl Joseph is expected to split reps with veteran safety Keith McGill alongside Reggie Nelson in the secondary.

Both rookies (James and Joseph) should provide a spark to an otherwise lifeless defense, but Walker still has the edge in this matchup if he suits up.

As Nick Hjeltness here at JustBlogBaby.com mentioned, Walker missed practice on Wednesday, was limited on Thursday, and again missed practice on Friday with a nagging hamstring injury.

Unfortunately for Oakland, Walker has no intention of watching from the sideline on Sunday.

"“Not a chance. I’m not going to miss a game,” Walker said."

His confidence should have Norton Jr. and company shaking in their boots.

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