If you are truly a Denver Broncos fan, then you know what this week is called. Raider Week. Growing up, we always knew when Raider week was, and we knew the importance of it. I can remember my dad telling us that if the Broncos went 2-14, as long as the 2 wins were against the Raiders, it was a good season. Broncos Country circles Raider week on the calendar every season, and it does not matter how bad they are.
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The NFL is cyclical, and sometimes you get to root for a winner, and other times you have to struggle along with your team. For Raider fans, it has been a struggle for several years, and the Broncos have been on a pretty good run. Now, Oakland comes in with a lot of young talent, and there is optimism for Raider fans. Nothing would feel better than watching Von Miller and DeMarcus Ware spend some time stomping on that optimism.
Denver is sitting on top of the AFC West, while the Raiders are still staring up at a division that has passed them by. Derek Carr and Amari Cooper are potentially key pieces to a puzzle that has been busted for over a decade. However, that puzzle is a long way from complete, and Bronco fans should be treated to exactly the type of game we love, a beat down of our most hated rival.
From fumble recoveries to interceptions to sacks, the Orange Crush moniker has truly been earned to this point. Now is the time for the offense to join the party.
However, this team can not let off the gas at this point in the season. There are no “gimmes” in the NFL, and this could be a big statement game for Petyon Manning and the offense. The defense has been holding onto games all season. Sunday against the Raiders would be the best time for the offense to come out and give the defense a break.
Watching this defense operate has been a pleasure. They have risen to the occasion every time adversity has reared its head. From fumble recoveries to interceptions to sacks, the Orange Crush moniker has truly been earned to this point. Now is the time for the offense to join the party.
Horseshoe Heroes
If anybody understands the importance of this game it is Gary Kubiak. He will want his offense to come out firing. He also knows how important this week is to Oakland. This is a chance for them to make the league recognize them as a team on the rise. Nothing would feel better than to knock them back down a few pegs. Beating the Raiders always feels good, no matter how bad they are.
Next: The top 5 Broncos road games against the Raiders all time
Oct 4, 2015; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning (18) passes in the second quarter against the Minnesota Vikings at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports