Thursday was another work day for the Oakland Raiders as they returned to the practice field at their Alameda facility.
After missing Wednesday's session with an ankle issue, TJ Carrie returned in a limited capacity. David Ausberry, Chimdi Chekwa, Gabe Jackson, and Carlos Rodgers once again did not participate on Thursday.
The Raiders offensive line has a big test ahead of them this Sunday in the form of DeMarcus Ware and Von Miller who have a combined 17.0 sacks this season. Interim Head Coach Tony Sparano spoke about the issues that the duo pose to his rookie quarterback Derek Carr.
"We know it's going to be a tremendous challenge," Coach Sparano said. "When you turn the film on and you watch those guys, they're probably hitting and affecting the quarterback 15 times a game right now in one way, shape or form – whether it's hitting the quarterback, being around the quarterback, disrupting the quarterback. Derek, he's been pretty good about not feeling that and our line has been pretty good about handling some of those situations, but we know it's going to be a huge challenge for us."
During his weekly press conference, Offensive Coordinator Greg Olson also discussed Ware and Miller and how their presence affects the offensive game plan.
"They have two special edge rushers," Olson said. "I think the line and the quarterbacks, running backs, everybody that is involved in protection is taking a great amount of pride right now in what we're doing to try to help Derek and keep Derek clean. I think they like the plan, and they've done a good job of executing and playing for the most part of the season."
As talented as the pair of Denver pass rushers are, the Raiders believe that they have their defensive anchor of the future in rookie linebacker Khalil Mack.
While Mack has not yet recorded his first NFL sack, he has consistently been able to apply pressure to the opposing quarterback and become one of Oakland's best defenders against the run.
"I think Khalil has extreme power and burst," Defensive Coordinator Jason Tarver said when asked about similarities between Mack and Von Miller. "There are similarities but there are also some differences. Khalil has extreme power. As long as he keeps throwing his hands at people and using that, he's right where we need him to be and he's very conscious of that."
He continued, "There are some similarities in their movements and things. I do know that both guys can cause havoc. We're really excited to have the one that we have in our program."
Mack and the rest of the Raiders will be back on the practice field tomorrow for the final time before their game Sunday game against the division-rival Broncos.
Kickoff is scheduled for 1:05 p.m. PT.
