New Orleans, LA – For the Oakland Raiders (1-3), a win today at New Orleans could wash away much of the stage show that has surrounded them since the start of the season and through its bye week.

One key aspect of the game will be how the offense will look with coordinator Greg Knapp in full control of the play calling.

Quarterback JaMarcus Russell has not looked like your typical first year passer, but he has not had many opportunities to get the ball down the field, as Lane Kiffin appeared to have a short leash on the former LSU product. The Raiders need to balance their offense in the coming weeks and one vital component that they will have to get involved is Javon Walker.

So far, Walker has compiled a lackluster 4 receptions for 52-yards. Not exactly what the Raiders thought they would get when they invested $55 million with $16 in guarantees during the off-season.

The passing offense needs a jolt. And stretching the field with Russell’s huge arm and getting Walker into the mix is imperative. Ronald Curry has been a disappointment as well, and his consistency has been sorely missed.

The ground game has flourished as expected, but since they were becoming easily one of the most predictable teams in the league, with the change in coaches, the Raiders can now refresh their mode of attacks and begin a new era today by diversifying an offense that is ranked 19^th overall, but on the strength of the 155 yards per game on the ground. The 153 yards per game they have amassed ranks them 29^th in the league.

And if they are going to turn the corner and move in the right direction with Cable at the helm and Knapp directing the offense, airing it out and taking advantage of the reputation they have built in running the ball is something they must take advantage of.