Ever since the Raiders drafted Sebastian Janikowski, you just knew he would get several attempts to shatter the distance field goal record. He’s had several memorable attempts throughout his career, including Lane Kiffin’s call for a 76-yard attempt.
But last night, on a wet evening, the powerful Polish kicker converted on a 63-yard kick, and per Janikowski, it wasn’t even his best effort.
“To be honest, I didn’t hit it that good. It barely got over the bar,” said Janikowski. “I hit a 70-yarder in pregame.”
Janikowski even had premonitions about the record. “I had a dream I broke the record, and it was here in Denver,” he said. “The ball really carries here.”
If there ever was a guy deserving of the record, it is the former first round selection. His potent leg has become Raider legend. He holds every Raider kicking record, but he’s not achieved everything he has wanted.
“I’m not big on setting goals, but I wanted to be 10 years in the league, break the record or tie the record and win the Super Bowl. Those were my three goals, and I’ve got two out of three.
“Hopefully, this year I get the third one.”
DHB, COMING THROUGH
The passing attack was not needed much yesterday, and a few times the wide receivers were non-existent. But on a few occasions when they needed to move the chains, the maligned speedster, Darrius Heyward-Bey, came through.
“DHB was clutch,” head coach Hue Jackson said. “He made some big catches, and he’s growing. I told you guys, the sky is the limit for him.”
Three of his four receptions went for first-downs, one a vital 3rd down conversion and another that helped Oakland kill the clock as the game wound down.
TOP PERFORMERS
Darren McFadden was stellar, and the cut he made on his 47-yard run seemed geometrically impossible. But all the praise should be forked over to the offensive line and their dominance of the trenches. Especially on the left side, where Oakland pushed around the Broncos all evening.
Matt Giordano was very active on blitzes, and defending passes. His sprawling interception showed off his range, as Oakland found a steady option for the defensive backfield.
Marcel Reece hauled in a touchdown, but his blocking was what left an impression. Always known as a good route runner and pass catcher, Reece is now developing into one of the better fullbacks in the league with his blocking prowess.
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