Raiders vs. Chiefs pick and prediction

On Sunday, one of the oldest and best rivalries in football will continue as the Raiders go on the road to face Kansas City. Being in Kansas City does not seem to deter Oakland much, as the Raiders have won their last five games there. Similarly, the Chiefs have had a great deal of success in Oakland in recent years. It has become rare for a home team to actually win a game in this rivalry.

This week it would seem to be even harder on the home team, as they are missing their starting quarterback in Matt Cassell. The Chiefs had a bye last week to prepare, and they decided to name Brady Quinn their starter. Quinn hasn't had success as a starter since his senior year at Notre Dame, so that would seem to be an advantage for Oakland. However, the Raiders have a habit of making mediocre quarterbacks look like Pro Bowlers so there is no guarantee that they can shut down Quinn.

More problematic for Oakland is the presence of Jamaal Charles in the Chief backfield. He is having a stellar year, averaging nearly 100 rushing yards per game with two touchdowns on the ground. He is a huge threat and the Raiders would be well served to focus on him every play and dare Brady Quinn to beat them with his arm. Chances are, he won't be able to do so.

I think the Raiders will win by three, possibly in overtime.