Chris Hodge, Free Picks Newsletter Editor
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NFL: Oakland Raiders vs. Kansas City Chiefs (+3.5); Over/Under (O/U 42)

The Oakland Raiders have kept quiet as to who will be the starting quarterback today against the Kansas City Chiefs, but when it comes right down to it I don’t think it will matter all that much. Today will be another big game for Darren McFadden.

The Raiders picked up Carson Palmer this week, but Palmer has been out of the game for nearly a year. If they don’t start Palmer today, it will likely be Kyle Boller running the offense as it’s doubtful the rookie Terrel Pryor will get the nod. We’ll likely see Palmer before we see Pryor.

Against the Kansas City Chiefs, though, whoever the quarterback is the best thing they can do is hand it to McFadden who has been running like he stole something since week 1. The Chiefs are 23rd in the NFL against the run. Even if they lineup with eight in the box, the Raiders should be able to clear cracks big enough for McFadden to pick up big yards.

The quarterbacking will just have to be able to hit Darrius Heyward Bey with enough dump passes to keep the defense honest for the Raiders to comfortably pick up this win.

Sure, these are two division rivals who have traditionally had some close games, but this year the Chiefs are especially vulnerable against good competition. The Raiders are most certainly good competition this year.

If the Raiders can implement Palmer into their offense as the weeks roll along, I could see Oakland being a formidable opponent in the playoffs.

The line favors the Raiders by 3.5.

They should have no trouble hitting that number, even on the road in KC. If you take a look at the Chiefs’ roster, they are simply hurting too much at the moment to compete against a much better football team.

Pick: Take the Oakland Raiders (-3.5)